Biogas potential estimation and geospatial decision-making: a hybrid MCDA approach to optimizing biogas facility locations

Abstract Biogas stands out among renewable energy sources with its environmental and economic advantages that support sustainable development. Despite Turkey’s rich biomass resources, the underutilization of biogas potential has resulted in insufficient investments in this field. The main objective of this study is to determine the most suitable locations for establishing biogas energy facilities in Şanlıurfa province, which is in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey. The total biogas potential of Şanlıurfa province, calculated from plant and animal waste, means that 4 biogas plants with an installed capacity of 40 MW can be built. Using an integrated approach that combines Remote Sensing, Geographical Information Systems, and Multi-Criteria Decision-Analysis methods, the study assessed 24 alternative locations for facility establishment. The Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process was used to weight 13 criteria reflecting environmental, economic, and technical considerations. Then, the obtained criteria weights were analyzed by the Technique for Order Preference Ranking Technique by Similarity to Ideal Solution method, and the most suitable alternative areas for biogas facilities were ranked. As a result of the study, the four most suitable areas for establishing biogas facilities were identified out of 24 alternative areas based on environmental sustainability, economic efficiency, and technical feasibility. These results can guide the decision-making processes of local governments and investors in the strategic planning of biogas facilities and contribute to the effective utilization of Şanlıurfa's biogas potential. Thus, the region's energy supply security will be strengthened, and a sustainable contribution will be made to Turkey's overall energy policies.