Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach for the Sustainable Autonomous Energy Generation through Renewable Sources. Studying Zakynthos Island in Greece

Abstract

Nowadays, energy demand is considered a notable world problem. The purpose of this study is to define, document and finally select an option of only one renewable energy source system, as to which is considered the most suitable solution from an environmental, social and economic point of view, for the energy independence of Zakynthos Island in Greece. This study examines the following alternatives; Biofuels Production Station, Geothermal Power Station, Hydroelectric Power Station, Solar Power Station and Wind Power Station. In order to determine the optimal renewable energy source, a multi-criteria decision-making approach is followed. The three pillars of sustainability, namely, the environment, the economy and the society, were used as the primary criteria in the context of the under determination goal. A significant number of environmental, economic and social sub-criteria were also developed and were subject to weight evaluation using both pairwise comparison and evaluation through structured interviews. Results, with regard to the delimitations set for the scope of the current study, indicate that solar energy source system is the optimal sustainable alternative.