GIS-based analysis of flood and drought susceptibility in renewable energy systems planning

Climate change phenomena have contributed to the occurrences of extreme weather since decades ago and give serious impact to energy systems in Malaysia. The main objective in this study is to present flood and drought susceptibility map in Malaysia using Geographic Information System based multi-criteria approach. The flood and drought maps were created using the analysis tools available in ArcGIS Pro and employing Analytic Hierarchy Process to identify flood and drought susceptibility hotspots for current and projected situation. To simulate the future scenarios of flooding and drought, the effects of climate change and land-use changes are estimated for 2050. Biomass, solar and hydropower energy systems are evaluated to determine which system is the most resilient to climate change impact and to identify locations impacted by climate change. The results concluded that both biomass and solar power facilities may be at risk of flooding and drought in 2050. Conversely, hydropower is considered the least susceptible to both flood and drought when compared with biomass and solar power plants. Hence, Malaysia should take proactive adaptation practices and improve awareness that identify potential hazards as well as prepare for future climate extreme, especially in high-risk areas.