Onshore Wind Farms Suitability Analysis Using GIS-based AHP-PROMETHEE II

Abstract. Wind energy is the most abundant, mature, and wide range of all renewable energy, and its optimal use results in enhanced energy security and affordability. However, wind farm suitability analysis is a crucial decision-making process that involves various stakeholders with different biases and concerns. Thus, effective planning of limited land resources and utilization of renewables ensure low environmental impact, high economic gains, and minimal community disturbances. This study presents a GIS-based AHP-PROMETHEE II framework that addresses the need for efficient onshore wind farms suitability analysis. The framework is illustrated through a case study in Cagayan Province. The results showed that there are 10.16% unsuitable, 47.45% least suitable, and 6.08% most suitable areas in the study area. The results also showed that the least suitable areas are inland while the most suitable areas are near coastal areas as validated by the sole wind energy service contract in the study area. In addition, the AHP’s underlying value judgments, inconsistencies, and limitations can be addressed by PROMETHEE II. The proposed framework can be used as a more strategic planning tool by decision-makers for onshore wind farm siting developments and can be a guide for regional or national scale mapping.