Implementing Data Envelopment Analysis(DEA) methodology to prioritize wind turbine locations for Sistan-Baluchistan, Iran

In view of the growing demand for energy in Iran, the efficient locations and development of renewable energy sources has become a major issue. The importance of prioritizing of the wind turbine site is being emphasized to maximize the productivity, and is a primary and important stage for decision makers in many countries. This research aims to prioritize five cities of Iranshahr, Chabahar, Zabol, Zahedan, and Saravan in Sistan-Baluchistan province located in southeastern part of Iran for wind turbine installation. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) methodology was used for this purpose. Five important criteria of wind potential, topography of the region, distance to the power distribution network, land cost, and intensity of natural hazards were considered for this analysis. Also, Anderson-Petersen model was used for ranking efficient Decision Making Units (DMUs). Finally, Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) method was used to validate the results of DEA model. Comparison of the results of DEA and SAW illustrated an excellent fit which indicates high validity of the DEA results. The results showed that the city of Zabol was the best option for wind turbine installation in the province.