Solar power plant site selection using fuzzy inference system: a case study in Iran

Solar energy, recognized for its potential in direct conversion into electricity and heat, offers a sustainable energy source with minimal environmental impact. Despite Iran's significant solar potential, the country's reliance on fossil fuels has hindered the widespread adoption of solar energy. This study evaluates the relative potential of different regions in Iran for solar power plant development using a novel integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Fuzzy Inference Systems (FIS). The findings indicate that the most suitable regions for photovoltaic (PV) power plant construction are located in Isfahan, Khorasan-Razavi, and Kerman provinces, where over 70% of the highly suitable land is identified. Conversely, the northern provinces such as Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan show minimal suitability. The study's outcomes provide critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders to optimize site selection for solar energy infrastructure, potentially increasing Iran's renewable energy capacity significantly.