Decision Support System for Solar Energy Adoption

Abstract

A decision support system (DSS) is a computerized information system that combines models and data to solve unstructured or semistructured problems with intense user involvement. DSSs have high applicability in several business areas and enable users without technical knowledge in computing to manipulate the information needed for a more assertive decision-making process. This study presents a DSS to support the decision process of installing a photovoltaic solution that considers the contracted power, the monthly expenses in electricity, and the location of the installation. The return on investment is estimated considering the annual savings in electricity and the return on investment. The findings indicate the relevance of the application to support the user in choosing the best solution and reveal that geographical location is a determining factor in the potential energy savings. Furthermore, the payback period decreases by increasing users' monthly consumption and is also potentiated by the increase in contracted power.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a Solution for Renewable Energy Gaps: Spatial Analysis for Polish Strategy

“…The location conditions for energy investments depend on various factors, including habitat quality, energetic condition, costs and benefits of moving, global sustainability pressures, locational resource endowments, investment costs, regulatory background, financial and non-financial dimensions, environmental effects, earnings, governmental incentives, merger and acquisition, access to sources, contract conditions, customer expectations, geographical proximity, natural conditions, construction cost, initial investment, distance to substation, job creation, economic risk, investment risk, solar energy potential, and energy factors [21,[45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53].…”

“…The potential for solar power generation in different regions is assessed based on factors such as solar energy potential and location [53]. Regions with high solar energy potential, such as Beja in Portugal, are considered suitable for solar energy investments [53].…”

Factors Hindering Solar Photovoltaic System Implementation in Buildings and Infrastructure Projects: Analysis through a Multiple Linear Regression Model and Rule-Based Decision Support System

“…The model has facilitated multiple stakeholders in timely and correct decision-making process [66]. One researcher and his panel is of the view that DSSs are powerful tools which enable their users to carry out effective decision-making without involving themselves in technical details [67]. They have used DSS in the decision-making process of solar power system installation, monitoring monthly electricity expenses, return on investments, and site supervision.…”