Site assessment for solar power plants by geographic information systems

Most of the energy the world needs is provided by the Sun. Among renewable energy power plants, solar energy is a type of energy production with high potential in terms of resources. Renewable energy plants eliminate the dependence of countries on foreign sources. Turkey has a fairly good geographical position in terms of renewable energy potential. However, the level of renewable energy production is low. Several feasibility studies in Turkey and power plant installation is carried out due to high level of solar power potential. In this study, it is aimed to determine the suitable areas where solar power plants can be established within the boundaries of Izmir province. Firstly, the factors that may affect the installation and efficiency of solar power plants have been identified. Regional data were collected by considering these factors. Percentage impact ratio was determined by software analysis of each factor effective to determine the suitability of the land. By combining the percentage effects of the determined factors with a method supported by geographic information system, the analysis of the sites within the boundaries of the study area was conducted. Lands not suitable for the installation of the PV are excluded from the assessment. When the remaining suitable land was classified, was calculated by taking the effect of radiation and temperature 70,3%, ENH 7,7%, slope 14,8%, see 7,2% PV plant. In this direction, the engineering, economic and social criteria that will determine the technical suitability of the areas where solar power plants will be established are determined and efficient areas where solar power plants can be established have been determined.