GIS-MCDM approach to scrutinize the suitable sites for a biomass power plant in southernmost provinces of Thailand

Abstract

Identifying suitable locations for biomass base facility is a tremendous task. This study developed a GIS-AHP based methodology to determine the suitable locations for 9.5 MW biomass facility considering para rubberwood as a biomass resource in southernmost provinces of Thailand. In total 10 siting criteria under environment and socio-economic capacity was assessed. The area needed to secure a feedstock for a 9.5 MW facility for sustainable operation, using an assumption-based method was also conducted. This study found that out of 13,941 km2 of the study area, 4,890 km2 (35%) is either highly or moderately suitable to establish para rubberwood-based energy facilities. Where 21 power plant can be constructed in the study area considering both high and moderately suitable areas and that capacitates to generate 1580 GWh/year.