A high-resolution geographic information system-analytical hierarchy process-based method for solar PV power plant site selection: a case study Algeria

Abstract

This paper proposes a site selection of large-scale grid-connected solar system in Algeria. A geographic information system-analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method was combined to identify and develop a high-resolution map of the most suitable sites for large-scale grid-connected solar system. A GIS database has been built for solar radiation, power grid, roads, cities, slope, land use and soil type. The data were gathered from different governmental organizations. However, a solar radiation map was developed using new approach. In order to test the impact of database raster resolution, the suitable zones are determined by performing a MCDM analysis using different (92 m, 250 m, 500 m and 1000 m) raster resolutions. The results show large improvements on solar radiation map compared to the previous work. A sensitivity analysis was done for three scenarios (AHP, equal weight, higher economic) which show that AHP method gives lager area of most suitable land. In addition, within raster resolution of 92 m, the most suitable zone for hosting large-scale grid-connected solar system represents 17% of the studied area, equivalent to more than 136 million GWh of energy produced. Moreover, more than 25,286 km2; was eliminated when using less resolution (1000 m) equivalent to 9.59 TWh, which demonstrated the high effect of raster resolution on the total power potential. The comparison of our results with those provided by renewable energy and energy efficiency development plan for PV projects indicated that 2 out of 21 projects are located inside of the optimal zone. For this reason, this work presents a helpful idea and significant results for policy makers to take decisions about implementing future solar projects.