GIS-Based Site Suitability Analysis for Solar Power Systems in Mongolia

In this study, we employed a geographic information system (GIS)-based approach to identify sites suitable for large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant installations in Mongolia. Accordingly, cells of 30 × m were used, and data based on seven criteria, including annual global horizontal radiation, average temperature, elevation, slope, slope direction (aspect), distances from main roads major lines, collected each cell. GIS layers these criteria then converted into rated value using four grades. The weightings applied the determined, an analytical hierarchy process, by ten field experts. By combining rating with weightings, site suitability map was developed, good, fair, low, poor results showed that graded as accounted 3.27%, 53.06%, 42.59%, 1.08% total surface area, respectively. Good predominantly located southern central regions As current demand electric is low high, respectively, concluded region Mongolia should be prioritized installing PV plants.