Article
Methodology to assess the implementation of solar power projects in rural areas using AHP: A case study of Colombia
Autor
Pérez Gelves, Jhon Jairo
Díaz Florez, Guillermo Andrés
Institución
Resumen
Selection of a location for a solar power projects is critical factor in energy planning due to conflicting objectives. The objective of this paper is to develop a methodology to assess the implementation of solar power projects in rural areas applied in Colombia using an Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). In order to assess potential locations of solar power projects in Colombia. This study takes into consideration techno-economic, social, and environmental-risk criteria based on data from the National Survey on Living Conditions in Colombia (NSLCC) and The Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM). Finally, eight departments were chosen representing different regions of the country, with differing levels of irradiation as well as distinct social, economic and environmental living conditions. The methodology presented here can be applied as a design tool for energy policy by utilities companies, providers, investors and academic researchers in the selection of locations for solar power projects. The application of proposed methodology shows that the Caribbean region presents the highest energy needs and the best environmental for the development of rural solar power projects in Colombia with overall priority of 72.4%.