Methodology to Assess the Implementation of Solar Power Projects in Rural Areas Using AHP: a Case Study of Colombia

Abstract

Selection of a location for a solar power plant is critical due to conflicting objectives7 in energy planning. The main objective of this study is to apply a methodology based on8 an Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), in order to assess potential locations of solar power9 projects in Colombia. This study takes into consideration technical-economic, social, and10 environmental-risk criteria based on data from the National Survey on Living Conditions in11 Colombia (NSLCC) and The Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Stud-12 ies (IDEAM). Eight departments were chosen representing different regions of the country,13 with differing levels of irradiation as well as distinct social and cultural living conditions. The14 methodology presented here can be used as a design tool for energy policy by utilities com-15 panies, providers, investors and academic researchers in the selection of locations for solar16 power projects. The results show the selection of alternatives using the AHP methodology.