Development of a novel solar energy need index for identifying priority investment regions: a case study and current status in Turkey

Abstract

In this study, a novel solar energy need index was proposed for the proper distribution of solar power plants. Important parameters such as land use costs, regional consumption, installed solar power plants, and solar energy potential were used for this index. This index was applied to the existing solar power plants in Turkey. In addition, detailed information about the development, strategies, potential, and the regional distribution of solar energy applications in Turkey was given. Also, an energy consumption map and a solar power plant distribution map were created. According to different parameters, an important map named "Regional need map of solar power plants" of the country was created. This preliminary study was carried out to bring a new index value to literature for the balanced distribution of solar power plants and to conduct a regional need analysis for the country's future solar power plants. The indexes and maps unearthed in this study will lead researchers from other countries to carry out further studies.