Multi-Criteria Decision Making using TOPSIS evaluating Lithium-ion battery and Hydropower storage system in NEOM Mountain

Abstract

The current reality of global warming has mandated a shift to renewable energy. Solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal power can provide energy without the planet-warming effects however, the trade-off is in their storage. Even with the vast amounts of renewable energy available, the discontinuity of their accessibility requires a stable storage source that can provide energy when required. Storage devices are divided into two categories Generation Integrated Energy Storage (GIES) and non-GIES represented by Hydropower Storage System (HPSS) and Lithium-ion batteries respectively. The two systems were studied using TOPSIS - an MCDM tool - to evaluate their efficacy and efficiency in a large-scale application like NEOM Mountain. Four factors are considered in this study principally: social, economic, environmental, and sustainability. Chapter 1 highlights the importance of renewable energy and the importance of these factors in choosing a suitable system. Chapter 2 consequently elaborates on each of the chosen systems describing its characteristics from each factor’s perspective. More so, it presents the case of NEOM and the importance of considering these factors and their impact on the project and project location. Continuously, chapter 3 describes the MCDM method TOPSIS chosen to carry out this decision-making process. TOPSIS is used to allocate ranks according to the weight and impacts of different factors. It is the most widely used and popular MCDM method as it is simple and easy to apply in problems with many criteria and multiple alternatives. It grants accuracy and independence from rank from rank reversal problems. Weight allocation being the most important step in the process, professionals in the field of engineering, construction, environmental, and sustainability specialists working in NEOM were consulted and placed weighted the factors. Finally, Chapters 4 and 5 provide evidence of the work's effectiveness and adaptability and introduce limitations faced during this process including behavioral, knowledge, and financial constraints.