GIS-based approach for modeling grid-connected solar power potential sites: a case study of East Shewa Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

Rapid exhaustion of fossil fuels followed by inherent climatic effects arising out of their use has forced the world to search for alternative energy sources. So, almost all nations including developing countries tend to harness renewable energies for the benefit of mankind. One such source is the sun offering clean, and environment-friendly energy. Solar energy can be changed into electricity and as well combined with other energies. This study is intended to model solar energy potential, delineate suitable grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) farms, and calculatetheir power generating capacity in the East Shewa Zone of Ethiopia using GIS-based approach combined with analytical hierarchical process. Results showed that 1129 km2 of area in the zone is ideal for the development of large PV solar farms.The findings suggest that as much as 2.2 TW of solar PV electric power can be fed to the grid system.The output of this study is thus useful to the government agencies and entrepreneurs engaged in the exploitation, production and promotion of non-conventional solar energy source in the region.