A GIS-based assessment of large-scale PV potential in China

Abstract

Development of solar photovoltaic (PV) in China received an important boost with China’s ambitious targets for renewable energy development. China cannot fulfil its emissions reduction commitments made at the Paris Climate Conference without the development of solar power. To investigate spatial suitability for solar power installations in China, this study builds a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based solar PV potential assessment model by combining GIS analysis with Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) technique. The solar radiation, protected areas, surface slope, surface vegetation and utilization types, water bodies and other factors are used as criteria to identify suitable areas, then the technology-specific suitability land map for large-scale PV power plant of China is obtained. Considering solar resources and water availability, hot spots for PV development in China are identified. The results show that there is a large area suitable for solar power stations in the northwestern regions with sufficient radiation, sparse surface vegetation and gentle surface gradient. On the other hand, in the drought northwestern areas, the PV development are also constrained by water stress. Finally, several hot spots for large-scale PV installations are identified. By assessing solar PV potential in China, this paper aims to provide insights for Chinese renewable development strategy and national energy planning.