A Computational Case Study on Sustainable Energy Transition in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

With the increasing urgency for sustainable development and energy transition, decision-makers face complex challenges in evaluating and prioritizing viable alternatives. Traditional decision-making techniques often struggle to capture the inherent uncertainty and imprecision associated with the latest sustainable energy transition issues. This paper presents a research framework based on fuzzy set theory and the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method to address these complexities and uncertainties. Our proposed approach offers a comprehensive evaluation and ranking of alternatives for sustainable energy transition. To demonstrate the effectiveness and applicability of this system, we employ a case study in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). As a global leader in fossil fuel production and export, particularly oil, the KSA has recognized the need to address climate change and diversify its energy sector. By leveraging the fuzzy TOPSIS-based framework, we provide decision-makers with a powerful tool to navigate the challenges and uncertainties involved in the energy transition process. This research yields promising results, demonstrating the superior capabilities of the proposed fuzzy TOPSIS-based framework compared to traditional decision-making techniques. The case study in the KSA highlights how our approach effectively captures and addresses the uncertainties and complexities involved in sustainable energy transition decision making. Through comprehensive evaluations and rankings, decision-makers gain valuable insights into alternative solutions, facilitating informed and strategic decision-making processes. Our research contributes to sustainable energy transitions by introducing a robust decision-making framework that integrates fuzzy set theory and the TOPSIS method. Based on the fuzzy TOPSIS-based evaluation, the research findings indicate that solar energy (EA1) ranked as the most favourable alternative among the evaluated options for the sustainable energy transition in the KSA. Using our framework, stakeholders in the KSA and similar contexts can make informed decisions to accelerate their energy transition efforts and achieve sustainable development goals.