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A geographical information system-based multi-criteria method for the evaluation of solar farms locations: A case study in Souss-Massa area, southern Morocco

Author

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  • Mensour, O. Nait
  • El Ghazzani, B.
  • Hlimi, B.
  • Ihlal, A.

Abstract

It is now well established that solar energy is a reliable alternative way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to mitigate climate change effects. In Morocco, solar energy investments are rapidly rising since 2009 and are expected to grow dramatically in the next decade. Site selection is a critical issue when large-scale solar plants are being planned. In this paper, the multi-criteria evaluation method is used to identify suitable sites to host Photovoltaic projects in southern Morocco. For this purpose, geographical information systems and analytic hierarchy process methods were combined to represent a high-resolution map that compares the potential of the studied region to host large-scale Photovoltaic projects. HOMER software was then used for modeling and simulating a 10 MW grid-connected PV system. The optimum scheme is analyzed to assess the economic feasibility in the most suitable site in the Souss-Massa region. The findings from this study confirm that 24.08% of the studied area offers suitable sites to host the Photovoltaic farms. The HOMER simulation has clearly shown that the grid-connected Photovoltaic system is beneficial in the long run, although its initial capital is higher than the grid supply only. Also, the cost of electricity generated from Photovoltaic panels is affordable.

Suggested Citation

  • Mensour, O. Nait & El Ghazzani, B. & Hlimi, B. & Ihlal, A., 2019. "A geographical information system-based multi-criteria method for the evaluation of solar farms locations: A case study in Souss-Massa area, southern Morocco," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 182(C), pages 900-919.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:182:y:2019:i:c:p:900-919
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.06.063
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