GIS-Based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis of Site Selection for Photovoltaic Power Plants in Çanakkale Province

Abstract

Energy demand is gradually increasing due to rapid population growth. Using fossil fuels for energy production destroys the environment and fossil energy-based reserves are expected to be depleted in the future. Renewable energy sources are needed to minimize environmental impacts. Solar energy is among the most researched and invested renewable energy sources. There is diversity in renewable energy sources in Çanakkale province but it is not sufficient when the potential is considered. Other renewable power plants except the wind should also be increased among the newly planned plants. Carrying out a comprehensive solar power plant analysis is the first step to provide a cost-effective and well-performing project, and so choosing a suitable location is a critical point towards developing solar energy projects. Knowing potential sites is a fundamental point for annual power plant production forecasting and financial feasibility. With the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA); a more reliable analysis is carried out, the most suitable places can be determined by considering various criteria. Within this study, using spatial analysis, it is aimed to determine areas where photovoltaic (PV) solar power plant can be established in Çanakkale province by GIS-MCDA and how much of energy demand can be supplied in case of installation. Criteria and restriction factors to be used were determined by scanning the literature in detail as part of the relevant legal regulations. According to the restriction map generated, 96% of Çanakkale province is restricted site since the restriction factors was considered refinedly. Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) will be used as a method of analysis and after acquiring the optimal sites, the annual electric power generation potential in those sites will be calculated. The outputs of this study will contribute development strategy and national energy planning.