Assessing the sustainability of renewable energy technologies using multi-criteria analysis: Suitability of approach for national-scale assessments and associated uncertainties

摘要: Abstract Multi-criteria analyses (MCAs) are often applied to assess and compare the sustainability of different renewable energy technologies or plans with aim provide decision-support for choosing most sustainable suitable options either a given location more generically. MCAs attractive multi-dimensional complex nature assessments, which typically involve range conflicting criteria featuring forms data information. However, input information on MCA is based associated uncertainties. The this study was develop apply national-scale assessment ranking eleven in Scotland critically investigate how uncertainties influence result. developed considers nine comprising three technical, environmental socio-economic criteria. Extensive literature reviews each selected were carried out gathered used alternatives. reviewed values generally found have wide ranges technology. To account uncertainty information, defined by probability distributions run using Monte Carlo simulation. Hereby probabilistic provided. We show that provided our specific case highly uncertain due conclude it important future studies address these explicitly, when assessing projects obtain robust results ensure better informed decision-making.