Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis framework: Transitioning from coal to Large-Scale Photovoltaics in Australia for achieving SDG 7

This study evaluates Australia's transition from coal-fired thermal plants to Large Scale Photovoltaic (LSPV) systems in its pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) targets using a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework. MCDA is performed to study the repurposing potential of the country's major sources of electricity generation. As a primary step, seven major power plants that are scheduled for decommissioning before 2040, each with a capacity of more than 1000 MW were shortlisted as alternatives. The key factors influencing the transition were organized into five criteria and ten sub-criteria. The evaluation was performed using two weightage methods and seven Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) models. Following the MCDA process, sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the tolerance of the input weights. This investigation reveals the most optimal coal-fired power plant that can be considered for this transition. This study offers a replicable model and a comprehensive framework for energy planners and policy makers to evaluate location specific energy-transition scenarios by maximizing their available green energy potential. • Decision-centric models showing transition of coal to Large-Scale Photovoltaics. • The repurposing potential of 7 major coal-fired thermal power plants is examined. • A robust evaluation framework using 2 weightage methods and 7 MCDA methods. • Evaluation of input weight tolerance by sensitivity analysis for reliability. • Two-fold energy policy recommendations aligned with SDG 7 goals of Australia.