Optimal site selection for floating photovoltaic systems based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA): a case study

Abstract

Solar energy is growing rapidly thanks to reduced implementation costs; European development plans foresee a significant increase in installed capacity in the coming years. In this scenario, new identifiable areas on water surfaces are needed. This would lead to the development of floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems, which would mitigate the environmental impacts of terrestrial installations. Therefore, it is necessary to develop and propose a methodology to identify suitable sites for the installation of such plants. This study is useful to demonstrate the potential benefits that can be achieved using the methods of GIS for the optimal siting of FPVs in combination with the use of MCDA in areas such as Sicily, which are characterised by high summer temperatures. Seven watersheds were studied and the best site for FPV allocation selected using MCDA is San Giovanni Dam.