Multi-criteria decision analysis for evaluation of potential renewable energy resources in Malaysia

Abstract

Switching to renewable energy resources as an alternative is critical for developing countries in order to ensure energy security and diversify their energy supply. Malaysia is endowed with biomass, solar, waste-to-energy, wind, and hydro energy potentials, although these have not been fully explored. This is because the country continues to rely extensively on conventional fossil-fuel energy sources such as coal and petroleum to generate power and consume energy. On the other hand, demand for energy is increasing as a result of population growth and a booming economy. Thus, this study intends to identify suitable potential renewable energy resources that can benefit Malaysia by analysing the outcomes of Focus Group Discussions (FGD) using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as an analytical technique. Five renewable energy resources were evaluated: biomass, solar, waste to energy, wind, and hydro energy while five criteria were identified: carbon production, operational costs, location characteristics, energy, and availability of renewable energy resources. The outcome suggested a strategic focus on solar energy for Malaysia due to consideration in carbon production. This information will assist decision-makers in strategizing the most suitable renewable energy resources for Malaysia.