Multi-criteria decision support: A case study of Southeast Europe power systems

Abstract

The power sector has been going through quite turbulent times during the past couple of years. During this time, several long-held tenets of the sector have been rewritten. As new technologies appear and as the surge of renewables dramatically transforms the system, we witness an emergence of new market players and possibilities. With key issues revolving around different problem areas, the importance of taking a multidisciplinary view on forming development strategies proves crucial in achieving desired outcomes. Having a detailed understanding of the dynamics underpinning energy markets is crucial for both decision-makers and investors. Forming a successful development strategy or a policy framework requires reconciling a string of technical, environmental, economic and social factors. Choosing the right combination of policies and technologies could fuel economic growth while still providing secure and affordable energy in line with low-carbon goals. In this light, we take Southeast Europe (SEE) as a practical example and study various questions regarding legal frameworks and development policies of countries in the region. The methodology structure allows considering environmental, economic, technology and policy issues. Each country's electricity sector is evaluated using a comprehensive database, with particular consideration to its affordability, self-reliance and sustainability. This study presents an overview to help clarify some of the aspects behind forming a successful framework capable of making the right decisions for the future.