An integrated DEA-fuzzy AHP method for prioritization of renewable energy sources in India

As India's population grows and urbanization accelerates, energy demand is increasing sharply while conventional sources fall behind. To tackle energy shortages and climate change, India must prioritize renewable energy sources (RES), which offer sustainable solutions. The country is rich in RES, which can enhance fuel mix for electricity generation. This study analyzes various RES in India-solar, geothermal, hydro, biomass, wave, onshore, and offshore wind energy -using an integrated data envelopment analysis (DEA) and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (Fuzzy AHP) methodology. Four main parameters-technical, economic, environmental, and socio-political -are identified and supported by 19 criteria, with environmental parameters including both desirable and undesirable criteria. In first phase, undesirable criteria are transformed into desirable criteria using Modified Ratio model. DEA is then applied to calculate initial efficiency score of RES under each parameter category. Fuzzy AHP determines weights for each parameter. The weights and initial efficiency scores are then combined to calculate overall efficiency score and ranking of RES. Sensitivity analysis shows that results obtained from proposed methodology are significant, and robust. Offshore wind ranks highest in efficiency, followed by hydro and onshore wind, while geothermal scores lowest. This methodology could benefit developing nations and guide policymakers in adopting RES.