Evaluation and benchmarking of research-based microgrid systems using FWZIC-VIKOR approach for sustainable energy management

Microgrid (MG) is one of the technologies considered in the direction of providing green and sustainable energy resources for local communities. Ensuring the best performance of these MG technologies requires extensive research to provide the most efficient system. Research-based microgrids (RB-MGs) play a vital role in the development of green energy platforms, as microgrid applications vary according to different scenarios and locations. Selecting the best research-based microgrid ensures providing local communities and stakeholders with well-tested and examined MG systems. Assessing research-based microgrid systems (RB-MG) for sustainable green applications poses a challenging multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) problem. These complexities encompass the consideration of several evaluation criteria, the relative importance of these criteria, variations in data, and the inherent trade-offs and conflicts between these factors. Crisp and definite values to evaluate the research-based microgrids could not be found despite a comprehensive investigation. In this regard, appraisals and opinions of experts and professionals in providing sustainable energy with vast knowledge and experience in assessment, selection, installation, and operation were addressed as data. A novel decision-making model was developed to evaluate and select the most proper RB-MG system by processing these data. This study proposes an integrated MADM modelling approach using Fuzzy Weighted with Zero Inconsistency (FWZIC) method in conjunction with the Vlse-kriterijumska Optimizcija I Kaompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method. The underlying process starts with constructing a decision matrix (evaluation criteria intersectioned with RB-MGs). Then, evaluation criteria are weighted using FWZIC, and the RB-MGs are ranked for each category using VIKOR. The results derived from FWZIC weights provide valuable insights. Key criteria such as 'installed power (KW)' and 'storage capacity (C3)' show notable values of 0.159 and 0.151, respectively, underscoring their importance in identifying optimal RB-MGs. These weights and alternatives were used to rank the highest RB-MG, which is LIER- CIRCE of the average PV power group, and Ormazabal from the 'Highest PV Power' group. Ormazabal obtained the lowest Qi (0.426). For the average PV power group, alternative number 7 (Atenea Centre) ranked as the best alternative with the lowest Qi among other RB-MGs in the same group (0.158107). Comparative assessments with various MCDM methods reveal strong correlations with TOPSIS and MABAC, but negative correlations with MAIRA. Additionally, there is a statistical difference in grouping by PV installed power (KW) or MPC.