The effect of normalization tools on green energy sources selection using multi-criteria decision-making approach: A case study in India

Selection of green sources for any region is a very tedious task as it involves several parameters specific to that particular region. This paper aims to select the optimum green energy sources by integrating multiple local factors inspired by a multi-criteria decision-making approach. An integrated multi-criterion decision-making analysis-entropy-complex proportional assessment is used to select the optimal green energy sources from a set of alternatives, viz., solar, hydro, biogas, and biomass, by appraising its main operational features. Initially, the entropy method is used to minimize the impreciseness in data and extract the precise weight from the inconsistency of data using beneficial and non-beneficial criteria. Then, the optimum sources are selected using the complex proportional assessment method as it considers both beneficial and non-beneficial criteria. Finally, the effect of various normalization tools on the assessment of performance ranking is also performed. An illustrative case study is presented to demonstrate the application feasibility of the integrated methodology. The analyzed result shows that hydro is the optimum green energy source (cost being the most influencing factor) having the highest score value followed by other sources, appraised by the integrated methodology. The research output is helpful in identifying the potential green energy sources and promoting investment in the green energy sector on a broader scale which will eventually have a global impact on the society. The study can also be used to support decision making in different situations and by various actors. Published by AIP Publishing.