A new application of measurement of alternatives and ranking according to compromise solution (MARCOS) in solar site location for electricity and hydrogen production: A case study in the southern climate of Iran

In recent years, declining fossil fuel reserves and increasing environmental concerns led to higher utilization of renewable energy source (RES). One of the RES is Solar energy which is abundantly found in different areas of the globe, particularly in Iran. The aim of this research is to select a suitable site for constructing a solar power plant to generate electricity-hydrogen in southern Iran, Kerman province. For this purpose, a new hybrid Multi criteria decision making method is used. The Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA)method is used to weigh the criteria and the Measurement of alternatives and ranking according to Compromise solution (MARCOS)method is used to rank cities. The results show that Sirjan is the most proper site for developing solar projects. Also, the technical and economic evaluation of a one MW power plant in this city is examined. The results show the amount of electricity generation is equal to 2064.2 MWh/yr and Levelized Cost of Energy equals to 6.31cents/kWh. In addition, in four scenarios, the size of the electrolyzer is optimized based on the minimum cost and maximum amount of hydrogen production. Also, the hydrogen production rate and Levelized Cost of Hydrogen equals to 30.77 ton/yr and 2.54$/kg, respectively.

Automated summary

This research selects a suitable location in southern Iran's Kerman province for constructing a solar power plant to generate electricity and hydrogen. A new hybrid multi-criteria decision making method is used to rank and weigh the cities. The results show that Sirjan is the most suitable site for developing solar projects, and the technical and economic evaluation of a 1 MW power plant in this city is examined.