Potential of Solar Pond as Source of Thermal Energy to Sustain the Development in Mena Region

Abstract

In terms of the importance of solar radiation sustainability in middle east and north Africa (MENA) Region, this research was initiated with the objective of mapping solar ponds to provide solar energy by Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and multi-criteria decision-making method to ensure their efficiency, in terms of cost. Primarily, literature in the field of solar ponds and clean energy was assembled, reviewed, analyzed and categorized to deduce data about solar pond locations and analyze. Accordingly, different variables were considered such as road networks and different countries. In addition, land cover as environmental parameter was considered. Furthermore, technical variables like direct normal radiation, temperature, wind, and relative humidity were taken into consideration using control points covered this area where a number of control points reach 65500 points each point calculated the mean wind, temperature, relative humidity, and direct normal radiation from thirty years. ArcGIS process was applied to solar pond technique locations were selected. The deduced data were comprehended, analyzed, and presented to perceive a complete data picture about MENA Region, from which it was apparent that different zones have different characteristics, in terms of the capability of encompassing solar ponds. Based on the investigation results, it was concluded that Morocco,