Multi-Criteria Wind Turbine Selection using Weighted Sum Approach

Wind energy is becoming a potential source for renewable and clean energy. An important factor that contributes to efficient generation of wind power is the use of appropriate wind turbine. However, the task of selecting an appropriate, site-specific turbine is a complex problem. The complexity is due to the presence of several conflicting decision criteria in the decision process. Therefore, a decision is sought such that best tradeoff is achieved between the selection criteria. With the inherent complexities encompassing the decision-making process, this study develops a multi-criteria decision model for turbine selection based on the concepts of weighted sum approach. Results indicate that the proposed methodology for finding the most suitable turbine from a pool of 18 turbines is effective.