Multi-criteria wind energy siting assessment : a case study in the West Fjords

 Author: Renata Stefanie Bade Barajas                                                                                                               Year: 2019                                                                                                                                             Supervisors: Ármann Gylfason, Samuel Nicholas Perkin, Stefán Kári Sveinbjörnsson

Abstract: 

Visualizing data through maps may aid in the strategic implementation of wind energy. Strategic implementation refers to holistic, multi-faceted site selection that addresses the common issues associated with wind energy generation. Current siting methods emphasize cost and prediction of power production. This study will expand on the state-of-the-art by addressing the effects of power generation on the transmission system and displaying results in user-friendly visuals.

This research identifies locations best suited for wind energy implementation in the West Fjords of Iceland based on eight criteria: diesel use, electricity use, population size, predicted power, icing, maximum potential generation input, expected power losses, and cost. 

A multi-criteria assessment method is used to systematically determine ideal wind energy locations in the West Fjords. A sensitivity analysis is conducted as to evaluate the impact of the various input variables on the cumulative score used for site selection. 

The study found that the Southeastern part of the West Fjords is best suited for developing wind energy when all input variables are weighted equally. It is recommended that a holistic study, such as the one presented in this thesis, is first performed to identify a set of high-value regions which may then be the focus of feasibility studies.