A GIS-based multi-criteria decision-making approach (GIS-MCDM) for determination of the most appropriate site selection of onshore wind farm in Adana, Turkey

Abstract

Energy stands as an indispensable global need, yet the finite nature of rapidly depleting fossil fuel reserves poses environmental challenges. To address this, numerous nations are shifting toward sustainable energy sources to foster environmental well-being while satisfying their energy requirements. Among these alternatives, wind energy emerges as a particularly efficient option. This study focuses on identifying optimal sites for installing wind power plants in Adana province through the integration of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information system (GIS). Within this framework, a comprehensive set of 15 criteria was delineated along with their respective sub-criteria. It is thought that the criteria used in the study will be useful not only for Adana province but also for other provinces that are suitable for wind turbine placement and planned to be built. The outcome of this investigation delineates potential areas in Adana province deemed suitable for establishing wind power plants. As a result, analysis reveals that 9.94% of the study area is conducive to establishing a wind farm (WF), while 51.66% is deemed moderately suitable. Notably, the districts of Feke, Tufanbeyli, Saimbeyli, and Pozantı emerge as particularly well-suited for this purpose. This study aims to contribute to the existing literature by identifying precise and suitable areas by combining GIS and AHP in the WF site selection process. In the study, a new research perspective is presented by taking into account the uncertainty in the site selection process and the concept of sustainability in three different dimensions: technical, economic, and environmental, thus aiming to guide decision-makers for future WF projects. In addition, it is thought that the methods and criteria used in the study will also be guiding for future WF site selection studies. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.)