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Analyzing the sustainability factors to prioritize sustainable energy source: A novel integrated MCDM model

Author

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  • Abdul, Daud
  • Wenqi, Jiang
  • Tanveer, Arsalan
  • Sharaf, Iman Mohamad

Abstract

Achieving sustainable development depends significantly on identifying sustainable energy sources. Therefore, prioritizing sustainable Biomass Energy sources (BES) for energy production is a strategic decision that requires a robust decision support system (DSS). Two critical problems, meanwhile, have not yet been adequately resolved. The criteria for assessing BES in terms of sustainability have not been systematically structured. Second, the state-of-the-art in BES evaluation generally ignores the constrained rationality of decision-makers. In order to address the issues above and offer a more systematic and understandable framework for assessing BES, this research presents different developments pertaining to the following: (1) Develop a novel robust DSS system based on an in-depth investigation of the sustainable aspects (2) The DSS consists of a two-phase procedure that integrates the primary methods of Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM), specifically the utility-based and the out-ranking approach. (3) The DSS uses spherical fuzzy (SF) information due to its comprehensive structure and ability to model hesitation in a decision process (4) Phase I employs the SF-AHP to weight the sustainability criteria (5) Phase II is composed of three stages, where SF-VIKOR and the SF-WSM methods are employed as utility-based approaches, and the SF-PROMETHEE is employed as an out-ranking approach. The model indicates that the economic factor is the most significant criterion, with forest residue identified as the optimal BES. A case study on BES evaluation, along with a feasible assessment, component analysis, and discussion, proves the practicality of the proposed DSS and the impact of parameter modifications on the outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Abdul, Daud & Wenqi, Jiang & Tanveer, Arsalan & Sharaf, Iman Mohamad, 2025. "Analyzing the sustainability factors to prioritize sustainable energy source: A novel integrated MCDM model," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 337(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:337:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225042793
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.138637
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