An Optimal Site Selection Framework for Near-Zero Carbon Emission Power Plants Based on Multiple Stakeholders

Abstract

Near-zero carbon emission power (NZCEP) plants, consisting of gas-fired units; wind turbines; power-to-gas (P2G); and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) systems, have recently received a lot of attention due to their enormous benefits in reducing carbon emissions and increasing the consumption of renewable energy. However, a complex environment of interest and a combination of risks makes their development very slow. This paper establishes a risk analysis framework for NZCEP considering multi-stakeholder participation. Firstly, a synthetic risk factor system was constructed based on stakeholders’ interests. Subsequently, interval type II trapezoidal fuzzy numbers were used and final weights were calculated from both subjective and objective aspects. Finally, we applied an acronym in Portuguese of the interactive and multi-criteria decision-making (TODIM) method to site selection to achieve a balance of interests of all stakeholders. In addition, a case study was conducted. The case result demonstrates that Zhengzhou in Henan Province is the best choice for a NZCEP power plant. A further finding is that government plays an important role in the development of NZCEP plants, with site selection results being the most sensitive to changes in the government’s risk appetite. Moreover, human resources are an important factor in the siting of an NZCEP plant.