Getting the right spatial mix: Optimising the size, type and location of renewable energy facilities

Citation

Comber A & Dickie J (2016) Getting the right spatial mix: Optimising the size, type and location of renewable energy facilities. In: Bailly J, Griffith D & Josselin D (eds.) Proceedings of Spatial Accuracy 2016. 12th Spatial Accuracy International Symposium 2016, Montpellier, France, 05.07.2016-08.07.2016. Montpellier, France: International Spatial Accuracy Research Association (ISARA), pp. 185-189.

Abstract
Supply and demand modelling for facilities that require land related resources need to take into account the spatial distribution the resource. Using a Scottish case study, this short paper presents a method extension that to the p-median problem that identifies optimal locations and combinations of different types and sizes of land based biomass renewable energy facilities. Whilst there are many decision models and tools for siting other types of renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro), supply and demand tools decisions around land based biomass renewable energy do not exist. The p-median extension and optimisation allows the trade-offs between different decisions around land, for example related to agriculture, food security, biodiversity, flood risks, to be evaluated. In the context of Scotland, this methodology supports the many policy agendas around community initiatives, agrirenewables, circular economy, supply chains, local food agendas, carbon sequestration and green infrastructures.

Keywords
Supply and demand; renewable energy; biomass; land use

People

Dr Jennifer Dickie

Senior Lecturer, Biological and Environmental Sciences