OSW

SIGNATURE WORK
CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2024

Spatial Analysis for Solar Panel Positioning in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia

Name

Darpan Barua

Major

Political Economy / Economics

Class

2024

About

Darpan Barua is a senior from Bangladesh majoring in Political Economy with a track in Economics. His interests extend to technology and healthcare.

Signature Work Project Overview

This research project aims to identify optimal locations for solar panel installations within Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. The study supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for increased renewable energy adoption. Makkah Province’s favorable climate and high solar irradiation make it a prime location for solar energy development.
The project will analyze crucial factors influencing solar panel efficiency by utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS), specifically the Suitability Modeler in ArcGIS. These factors include solar irradiance, temperature, elevation, slope, aspect, proximity to roads, and power transmission lines. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) will be used to determine the relative importance of each factor, incorporating expert insights.
The outcome of this spatial analysis will be a suitability map visually highlighting the most promising areas for solar energy development within Makkah Province. This map will be a valuable decision-making tool for stakeholders involved in renewable energy projects in the region. The research will promote informed choices, maximize economic efficiency, and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s transition to a more sustainable energy mix.

Signature Work Presentation Video