Site location analysis of a solar power plant using GIS

Abstract

Lebanon suffers from a crisis in its electrical sector. Blackout hours are increasing while the small amount of electricity produced is based on burning fuel leading to extensive pollution. The project tackles this issue specifically in the North district of Lebanon and studies solar energy as a potential solution. The authors intend to review the problems of the electricity sector in Lebanon, go through different types of solar cells and solar plants, analyze feasibility of a solar power plant, and find an appropriate area to establish such a plant. However, the construction of such a plant subdues too many restrictions and limitations. The authors used GIS to illustrate the distribution points in the North district, and to simulate the restrictions that limit the areas of construction of solar power plants; trying to find the most favorable area to build a solar power plant. They mapped all the restrictions and overlaid the maps to be able to find the most favorable construction site. Finally the authors conclude with recommending an ideal location where a solar power plant, able to compensate for electricity deficiencies, can be founded.