A comprehensive analysis based on GIS-AHP to minimise the social and environmental impact of the installation of large-scale photovoltaic plants in south Spain

Abstract

This article aims to propose a methodology to assess and prioritise the territorial factors considered when selecting the location of large-scale photovoltaic plants. It therefore seeks to answer the current social conflict problem regarding their installation, particularly in the rural context. The territory zoning is conducted from a holistic perspective, taking into account its social and environmental impact. Therefore, a series of analysis and restriction parameters are established and the Analytic Hierarchy Process by Geographic Information Systems is used. Those criteria are superimposed on the landscape of the Jimena Depression. Located in the south-west of Spain, it is coastal landscape countryside where energy companies currently exert great pressure to expedite applications for photovoltaic projects. A mapping characterization is thus produced that determines which areas should be considered excluded, along with the zones of greater or lesser environmental and social awareness. Assessing this zoning, along with the energy demands and the location of the existing plant projects leads to a series of questions to be considered in the planning of those municipalities. They respond to the need to conduct an overall study, and ones on land protection, the cumulative impact regulation, and on implementing social measures to offset the changes caused.