Research Information System
International journal of energy studies (Online), vol.9, no.2, pp.291-308, 2024 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
ABSTRACT
This study focuses on various Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods developed in the academic literature
to facilitate the decision-making process. These methods are primarily aimed at establishing a ranking of alternatives
based on specific criteria, with the ultimate goal of determining the most optimal alternative. In this work, we propose a
novel integrated MCDM approach that combines the Total Area Based on Orthogonal Vectors (TAOV) method with the
Multi-Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) method. Within this framework, criteria weights are determined using the
MAUT method, while the TAOV method is employed to ascertain the ranking of alternatives. The primary objective of
this approach is to identify the most suitable renewable energy resource for the context of Turkey. Based on a
comprehensive review of relevant literature regarding the evaluation of renewable energy sources in Turkey, a set of
critical criteria influencing the decision-making process is delineated. These criteria encompass a range of factors
including efficiency, construction duration, cost, government incentives, economic lifespan, external dependence,
employment opportunities, social acceptance, spatial requirements, and environmental considerations such as
greenhouse gas emissions. The outcomes of this study reveal that, according to the proposed approach, the most
beneficial renewable energy resources for Turkey are ranked as follows: hydroelectric, wind, solar, biomass, and
geothermal energy sources, respectively.
Keywords: Multi criteria decision making (MCDM), Multi attribute theory of utility (MAUT), Total area based on
vertical vectors (TAOV), Renewable energy resources.