Invited Speaker
Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Hassan El-kasaby
Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Education, Matrouh University, EgyptSpeech Title: Multi-Criteria Suitability Analysis for Siting Solar Power Plants Case Study: Kuwait
Abstract: Renewable energy sources are preferable compared to fossil fuels as they are usually free and widely available with limited or no environmental impacts. Seeking clean energy is essential for Kuwait and other Gulf states in order to: ensure a more diversified energy portfolio for their domestic economies, shift towards green economies, and attain sustainable development. This study aims to provide a GIS-based model for multi-criteria suitability analysis that can be employed in identifying the potential sites for photovoltaic power plants. The proposed model assisted in integrating a number of criteria-relevant indicators that reflect the suitability of various parts of Kuwait for siting photovoltaic power plants. Accordingly, the potential sites for solar energy plants in Kuwait were delineated. The potential electric power that can be generated from these more suitable sites was also evaluated.