A multi-criteria approach for assessing the potential of renewable energy sources for electricity generation: Case Serbia

Abstract

When assessing the potential of renewable energy alternatives for electricity generation, it is necessary to implement a multi-perspective approach that includes economic, technical, environmental, and socio-political criteria. For the evaluation of criteria and alternatives, the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method is applied. The obtained weights are formed according to the values of energy indicators and expert judgments. The use of a fuzzy numerical value scale for the assessment of expert judgments and energy indicators provides a more sensitive scoring system for differences between values than the typical rank of absolute energy indicator values. This approach is implemented for assessment of the potential of renewable energy sources that could be utilized in the Serbian electricity sector. The results of the FAHP reveal that hydropower and biomass have the highest potential among available renewable energy sources.

Keywords

• Electricity generation
• Renewable energy sources
• Multi-criteria decision analysis
• Serbia