542
Views
15
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Research Article

Optimal site selection for sitting a solar park using a novel GIS- SWA’TEL model: A case study in Libya

, , &
Pages 336-350 | Received 11 Aug 2020, Accepted 31 Oct 2020, Published online: 16 Jan 2021
 

ABSTRACT

The present paper proposes a spatial model for the purpose of helping Decision Makers (DM) to select a location for Solar Power Plants (SPPs) in the Misrata District, Western Libya. In this regard, the use of the Geographic Information System (GIS), SWARA (Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis), and DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) multi-criteria methods is suggested. The goal of this paper is to develop a new multi-criteria spatial model to identify the best locations for Solar Power Plants (SPP). Such model considers six constraints and eight assessment criteria that are gathered into financial, social, and specialized measures. The hybrid SWARA-DEMATEL (SWA’TEL) model is utilized to assess the weight coefficients of the suggested criteria. The final suitability map is presented utilizing raster cells (alternatives) that are given values ranging from 1 (the least suitable) to 5 (the most appropriate). As the outcomes indicate, an area of 1 667 km2 in Misrata is entirely fit for the SPPs establishment. A sensitivity analysis performed by changing the criteria weights shows that the model is useful in selecting appropriate locations for developing SPPs projects. The model could also be used effectively to help locate appropriate sites for solar farms being installed in other areas with similar geographical conditions.

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.