Using multi-criteria analysis to select an energy source

Abstract

Multi-criteria analysis is widely used to solve various technical and economic problems. There are a large number of applications of multi-criteria analysis. Methods for evaluating the total set of criteria have been investigated. However, the selection of criteria for various specific tasks remains the prerogative of specialists in the relevant branches. The goal of this study was to implement a multi-criteria analysis for assessing the potential of renewable energy sources' competitiveness. Renewable energy sources also include a closed nuclear fuel cycle based on fast-neutron reactors. The advantage of such cycle is the reproduction of nuclear fuel in the same or even greater quantity than it was used. At the same time, uranium isotopes are involved in the cycle, which are waste in conventional nuclear generation. The disadvantage of a nuclear fuel cycle is an output of hazardous waste and a complex technology for its processing. This task is a strategic one, and economic reason is not sufficient in this case. A structure of criteria for strategic decision making was compiled, and eight groups of main criteria were created. An expert analysis of the criteria was carried out and their relative significance was determined. Results. The significance of economic, environmental, technological and safety criteria is revealed. The formulae for criteria normalizing to apply the integration were proposed. Preliminary multi-criteria analysis has shown that a closed nuclear fuel cycle can compete with renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power plants.