Integrating spatial data and multi-criteria analysis for wind farm suitability mapping in eastern Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Wind energy offers significant potential for Saudi Arabia's energy future. This framework integrates wind farm suitability analysis with spatially explicit groundwater potential mapping. So, revealing prospective windy sites as optimal zones for wind farm installation has become a vital issue for wind farms in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province. To power clean energy and groundwater pumping, we deployed a unique blend of multi-criteria decision-making and spatial analysis. Several suitability criteria (17 factors) were used, including wind power density, land cover, and infrastructure, via a two-pronged approach. Five key factors were analyzed through a decision-making process, while the remaining 12 received suitability modeling. The resulting map reveals extensive areas with high wind farm potential. "Very high," "high," and "moderate" suitability zones cover a combined 211,943 ha, compared to a mere 1459 ha with "low" and "very low" potential. Interestingly, "sands" emerged as the surface with the highest concentration of "very high" suitability, while "fallow land" offered the most extensive suitable area overall. Wind power density proved to be the driving force behind these rankings. The study recommends further research to understand how wind power density correlates with wind speed at different altitudes. This could refine wind farm placement and maximize its effectiveness.