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A spatial decision-support framework for solar photovoltaic planning in humid and forest-dominated regions: A case study of Tripura, India

Author

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  • Deb, Siddhartha Sankar
  • Das, Bikram
  • Sharma, Sharmistha

Abstract

Deployment of Large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) in Humid and forest-dominated regions is challenging because of diverse terrains, dense and widespread vegetation cover, and land-use constraints. This study presents a spatial decision-support framework based on GIS-Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)- for solar power site suitability analysis, considering Tripura, India, as a representative case study of such regions. Multiple environmental, topographic, infrastructural, and land-use criteria were integrated within a geographic information system to genrate a spatial suitability map. Criteria weights were derived using an empirical formula based AHP approach to reduce subjectivity, and an AHP sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the robustness of suitability outcomes. Based on weighted overlay analysis, the study area was classified into four categories: most suitable, highly suitable, moderately suitable, and not suitable. The outcomes shows that 1.66% of the total area is mostly suitable, 34.2% highly suitable, and 0.99% moderately suitable. An illustrative Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) case study was included to provide economic context. A sensitivity analysis of AHP criteria was included by ±10% perturbation in GHI which resulted in a nominal change (≤1.5%) in the suitability analysis. The framework offers a transparent and reproducible approach for preliminary solar PV planning in humid, forest-dominated regions.

Suggested Citation

  • Deb, Siddhartha Sankar & Das, Bikram & Sharma, Sharmistha, 2026. "A spatial decision-support framework for solar photovoltaic planning in humid and forest-dominated regions: A case study of Tripura, India," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 271(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:271:y:2026:i:c:s0960148126008426
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2026.126016
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