Title: A framework for the optimal multicriteria design of networks of small hydro turbines in polluted streams

Authors: Mario Luis Chew Hernández; Edgar Enrique Pérez Pantoja; Bianca Carolina García Reyes

Addresses: Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Coacalco, Department of Graduate Studies and Research, P.O. Box 55400, Mexico ' Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Coacalco, Department of Graduate Studies and Research, P.O. Box 55400, Mexico ' Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Coacalco, Department of Graduate Studies and Research, P.O. Box 55400, Mexico

Abstract: This work presents the development of a framework for the multicriteria design of a network of small hydro turbines. The framework is applied to the case in which some of the rivers available for turbine installation are polluted and several towns, with varying urges for electricity, are present in the area. Based on a decision analysis-value focused thinking approach, and through objective clarification and attribute construction, the proposed framework aims to include social, environmental and economical concerns into the evaluation. The approach should be useful for a public or governmental entity in charge of the design of a network of small hydro turbines. Finally, the framework is applied to a case-study region, and its usefulness as a way of representing and clarifying the objectives of the deciding entity is discussed.

Keywords: decision analysis; small hydroelectric plants; wastewater; value focused thinking; multicriteria decision making; MCDM; public policy; small hydro turbines; hydropower; polluted streams; water pollution; multicriteria design; turbine networks.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMCDM.2015.067944

International Journal of Multicriteria Decision Making, 2015 Vol.5 No.1/2, pp.109 - 128

Received: 04 Feb 2013
Accepted: 27 Dec 2013
Published online: 10 Mar 2015 *

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