Barrier analysis of solar PV energy development in the context of Iran using fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS method

Abstract

The development of renewable energy systems could be facilitated by appropriate energy policies according to the recognition of major barriers. Iran, with over 1,648,000 sq. km of suitable area and 300 sunny days per year, and over 2200 kWh/m2 of irradiation, has one of the highest potentials for utilization of solar energy on the planet. However, achieving the goals of renewable energy development based on Iranian roadmaps encounters various barriers. On the other hand, there is a research gap for conducting a comprehensive study by considering multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods and qualitative methods under uncertainty in investigating the barriers of photovoltaic developments. By combining Fuzzy MCDM methods and qualitative analysis ones, this study aims to respond to this research gap, particularly for the barriers facing Iran’s photovoltaic energy production development. This paper assesses the barriers based on Fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (Fuzzy-AHP) techniques. The Fuzzy-TOPSIS method is also used to determine how it is possible to overcome the challenges. The results imply that “messy economic situation” and “ineffective bureaucracy” are the most barriers hampering the development of photovoltaic energy production in Iran. Moreover, “Economic and financial incentives” and “mitigating bureaucratic efforts for permission approval” are the most effective solutions.