Determination of suitable locations for wind power plants in Ağrı province using GIS methods

This study aims to identify the most suitable locations for wind power plants (WPP) in Ağrı Province in the context of Turkey's increasing energy demand and the depletion of non-renewable energy sources, which have emphasized the importance of renewable energy resources. Wind energy stands out among renewable energy sources due to its sustainability, low carbon emissions, and limitless potential. The study employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methods to evaluate wind energy in an environmentally and economically efficient manner. Moreover, the site selection of the existing İpektepe and Yakaağzı WPP projects has been thoroughly analyzed according to the criteria established in this study. The research analyzed eight critical criteria essential for the establishment of wind power plants: wind speed, slope, proximity to power transmission lines, distance from residential areas, proximity to protected and wetland areas, distance from highways, elevation, and vegetation cover. These criteria were evaluated using GIS-based analyses and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), which calculated the spatial suitability impact of each factor. The AHP method provided a scientific basis for prioritizing the criteria and identifying the most suitable locations. As a result, the most appropriate areas for WPP installations in Ağrı Province were determined and evaluated in detail concerning both technical and environmental factors. The findings reveal that the identified areas have the capacity to optimize wind energy potential. Areas with high wind speeds, low slopes, and proximity to power transmission lines were identified as the most economically and technically viable locations. These suitability analyses also considered social and environmental sensitivities, such as the distance from residential areas. Literature highlights that turbines located too close to residential areas can cause issues like noise, visual disturbances, and shadow flicker effects. Therefore, social acceptance and environmental sustainability objectives were emphasized in this study. The study also provides a detailed examination of the site selection for the existing İpektepe and Yakaağzı WPP projects. The compliance of these projects with the identified suitability criteria was assessed, and shortcomings were identified. For instance, the proximity of certain areas to protected zones or the distance from power transmission lines were noted as factors potentially reducing the suitability of these locations. Additionally, potential impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem balance were analyzed, assessing the environmental sensitivity of the plants. This research highlights the critical role of geographic information systems in the effective and sustainable use of renewable energy sources. While similar analyses in the literature are often framed within engineering disciplines, this study underscores the importance of spatial analysis in renewable energy investments from a geographical perspective. Furthermore, the analysis conducted for regions like Ağrı, which have wind energy potential but are under-researched in this context, provides valuable insights for regional energy policies. In conclusion, this study offers an innovative approach to identifying suitable locations for WPP installations and evaluating existing projects in Ağrı Province. The GIS and MCDA-based analyses provide a model for sustainable energy investments that consider technical and environmental factors. The findings are not only applicable to Ağrı Province but also offer guidance for renewable energy projects in other regions of Turkey, contributing to national energy policies and supporting sustainable development goals.