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A large scale multi criteria suitability analysis for identifying solar development potential: A decision support approach for the state of Illinois, USA.
- Source :
-
Renewable Energy: An International Journal . Nov2021, Vol. 177, p554-567. 14p. - Publication Year :
- 2021
-
Abstract
- The State of Illinois is examining prospects to increase the development of in-state renewable energy resources on public lands. In response, this research develops a scalable decision-support tool for identifying suitable areas for solar energy generation in the state. This paper provides guidance for state agency-driven solar development by evaluating the suitability of potential generation areas in terms of environmental impact, socioeconomic costs, and energy productivity, and providing a forum for critical decision-making. More specifically, geospatial technologies are combined with a suitability analysis to reveal the potential for solar energy generation on public lands. This study demonstrates the usefulness of the resulting information for supporting both regional and local decision-making as a Planning Support System (PSS). Our analysis suggests that the large-scale analysis using fine resolution data is useful for comparison and site-specific decision making - with site verification protocols in terms of physical implementation. We find that planning decisions for solar development should use a fine-grained suitability approach at a large scale and a feasibility analysis at a specific scale. We present our findings in statewide application along with a scalable PSS tool to optimize and support solar decision-making process and democratize the information for engaging a broader audience. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 09601481
- Volume :
- 177
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- Renewable Energy: An International Journal
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 151779796
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2021.05.165