Multi-level constraints wind farms siting for a complex terrain in a tropical region using MCDM approach coupled with GIS. (15th November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cunden, Tyagaraja S.M.; Doorga, Jay; Lollchund, Michel R.; Rughooputh, Soonil D.D.V.
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 211(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-11-15
• Subjects: Wind farm siting -- GIS -- Decision criteria -- MCDM; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2020.118533
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents a Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) process together with Geographic Information System (GIS) to analyse multiple constraints that affect the siting of wind farms. Firstly, exclusion zones are identified and are removed from the potential wind farm placement regions of the wind resource map layer. A set of nine selected evaluation criteria are weighted using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in order to quantify their impacts on the placements of the wind farms. Constraints such as buffer zones and suitability scores are developed. Using these constraints, raster layers including the proximity to road network and high voltage transmission lines are created. Theses layers are then superimposed on raster layers comprising of high-resolution terrain DEM and raster dataset for wind speed and direction. The combination of the raster layers is done using the Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) technique to yield a wind resource map highlighting the regions for wind farms placements, classified according to their potential wind power density. As a case study, the methodology is applied to the island of Mauritius which has a complex topography. Highlights: A novel algorithm for optimal wind farm siting is proposed. A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making approach coupled with GIS is used. Exclusion zones as well as constraints that affect wind farm siting are considered. Complex terrains are well adapted by the proposed methodology. Can help decision makers in efficient planning of wind farming.