Multi-criteria decision support system for wind farm site selection and sensitivity analysis: Case study of Alborz Province, Iran

Abstract

Renewable energy resource assessment critical input to national development planning. This paper analyses a multi-criteria decision support system to estimate wind energy resources in central Iran. The Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) method and site selection criterion for wind resource assessment using ArcGIS are described and developed for the study area. Structural, topographical, and ecological criteria, along with their sub-criteria, have been directed to eliminate unsuitable locations. The methodology takes into account the slope of the terrain, wind speed, distance from the electricity grid, distance from substations, distance from urban areas, and distance from highway and roads as AHP (Analytical Hierarchy Process) criteria. The results of the study show that 20% of the study area is suitable for wind farm development. The South East area of the province, including Karaj and Nazar Abad County, is the highest priority part of Alborz province. A sensitivity analysis indicates that results were generally reliable; however, eliminating the electrical criteria is the best way to enhance the area of available land for wind farm development.