Multi-criteria decision-making model for assessing the sustainability index of wind-turbine support systems: application to a new precast concrete alternative

Abstract

A multi-criteria decision-making system based on the MIVES method is presented as a model for assessing the global sustainability index scores of existing wind-turbine support systems. This model is specifically designed to discriminate between tower systems in order to minimize the subjectivity of the decision and, thus, facilitate the task of deciding which system is best for a given set of boundary conditions (e.g., height, turbine power, soil conditions) and economic, social and environmental requirements. The model’s versatility is proven by assessing the sustainability index of an innovative new precast concrete tower alternative also described in this paper. As a result of this analysis, some points of improvement in the new system have been detected.

Keywords:

• AHP
• wind-turbine supports
• MIVES
• quantitative analysis
• sustainability
• value analysis

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Albert de la Fuente

Albert de la FUENTE. He is a Lecturer Professor of Concrete Structures at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (Barcelona Tech.). His main research interests include development of multi-criteria decision-making tool, nonlinear analysis of concrete structures, optimization of fiber reinforced structures and its industrial applications.

Jaume Armengou

Jaume ARMENGOU. He is the Vice-Chancellor for Academic Organization and Teaching Staff, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya. His main research interests are project management, business ethics and prefabrication of concrete structures.

Oriol Pons

Oriol PONS. He is Associate Professor of the Department of Construction at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (Barcelona Tech.). His main research interests are innovative building technologies and their sustainability, LCA, software analysis, development and application to educational and curvilinear edifices.

Antonio Aguado

Antonio AGUADO. He is Full Professor of the Department of Construction Engineering at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (Barcelona Tech.). His main research interests are fiber reinforced concrete, shotcrete, selfcompacting concrete, sustainability value analysis for integral and objective evaluation, concrete dams and tunnels.