Solar power station site selection conditions

Why is site selection important for solar PV power plants?

Site selection for the utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) solar farm is a critical issue due to its direct impact on the power performance, economic, environmental, social aspects, and existing as well as future infrastructures. In this chapter, we conduct a literature review on site selection of solar PV power plants.

Can a site selection criteria be used for solar power plants?

It can be applied to any site selection problem, ranging from renewable energy sources to agricultural area. As a future study, this approach can be developed considering more criteria in different applications in order not to ignore any criterion for site selection of the solar power plants installation.

Does proximity to populated areas affect solar PV power plant site selection?

Proximity to populated areas is considered widely in the literature as a determining factor for the site selection problem for solar PV power plant (Halder et al. 2021). When the solar PV power plant is near populated areas, the energy transmission cost is reduced; however, this may adversely affect the environment.

Do site selection criteria affect the site selection of solar PV projects?

We investigate the degree of importance of criteria affecting the site selection of solar PV projects using a decision-making model. In this study, a new model for determining the weight coefficients of the site selection criteria of solar PV projects based on the logarithmic additive assessment of the weight coefficients (LAAW) is proposed.

How to choose a suitable location for solar PV power plants?

The installation of solar PV power plants requires vast land and huge investment. Therefore, it is necessary to select a suitable site to achieve maximum efficiency and low cost. A feasible location of photovoltaic (PV) system must consider certain criteria including land restrictions, access to roads, and transmission lines.

How is a solar energy power plant potential site selection map made?

Firstly, a solar energy power plant potential site selection map is made using a GIS program along with considering ecological risks and ecological criteria.