A Multi Criteria Decision based rural electrification system

Selection of suitable energy solutions for a rural location seems complicated while addressing multiple and simultaneous technical, social, economic and environmental traits. Even with achievements of theoretical progress towards binding their synergies, only a handful of approaches exists for well-designed multiple objective frameworks considering rural electrification. For a successful implementation of rural electrification project for any demography of world, the social criteria play a very crucial role. Decision analysis involving technical, financial, social and environmental aspects becomes more diverged and challenging. However, Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis Tool (MCDA) has arisen as a solution to diverse criterion and differing views. A MCDA method facilitates decision processes that are logically difficult, participative and translucent, for energy planning. In this paper, a methodology framework incorporating decision analysis techniques has been presented to evaluate and determine a suitable energy system for rural electrification with a perspective to sustainable development. Technically mature, commercially available and government regulated energy sources were considered to generate the possible alternatives. A total of twelve alternatives were proposed; the first six in a Compact Centralized Off Grid Generation and another six as Compact Centralized Grid connected systems. Solar, wind, diesel generator was considered as energy sources along with battery as storage.