Assessing the Potential of Solar and Wind Energy in Tajikistan Using a Multi-criteria Method

The purpose of the study is to determine the technical and economic potential of solar and wind energy in Tajikistan using a multi-criteria approach aimed at development of renewable energy sources (RES) in the region to improve the energy security and support sustainable development of the country's energy sector. The study was carried out using a multi-criteria approach based on analyzing the density of resources, land use types, terrain characteristics, as well as environmental and technical parameters. Updated data on the solar and wind resources, and a renewable energy zone methodology are presented, which makes it possible to take into account various factors in assessing the energy potential. The study has shown that the technical potential of RES in Tajikistan makes 646 850 MW for solar energy and 15 557 MW for wind energy, while the economic potential makes 369 600 MW and 4485 MW, respectively. Key areas for the development of renewable energy sources have been identified, which allows efforts to be directed toward their development. The results of the study can be used to formulate the energy strategy and policy, especially in the context of the development of small solar and wind power plants in Tajikistan, and play an important role for infrastructure planning and decision-making in the field of sustainable development of the country's energy sector. The multi-criteria analysis has revealed a significant potential of renewable energy sources in Tajikistan, which contributes to the development of the RES and improvement of the country’s energy security. The study results contribute to clarifying and updating data on the potential of RES in the region, which is important for strategic planning and implementation of projects on the use of renewable energy sources.