Selection of distributed generation system using multicriteriadecision making fuzzy TOPSIS optimization

Distributed Generations (DG) are modular power generating technologies that are located near the load centers. DGs help avoid the expensive long distance transmission of power which is expensive and lossful while providing certain relief to the central power grid. They can be reliable and environmental friendly. DGs can prove beneficial for the local economies, enhance the energy independence, provides lowcost electricity at the same time providing access to liberalized generation markets for the concerned distribution utilities. There is wide range of DG options available. When presented with wide range of DG options selecting the correct one can prove to be daunting task. In this paper Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) technique which is increasingly popular is used for ranking DG systems. The DG systems considered in this paper are reciprocating engines (RE), micro turbine (MT), fuel cell (FC), solar PV (PV) and wind turbine (WT) while the criteria used for ranking are cost, minimum starting time, noise, emission level and continuity. The analysis is done with the aid of MCDM technique employing Fuzzy TOPSIS while weight values of the criteria are determined using the Interval Shannon's Entropy methodology. As per results obtained the first criterion in preference ranking of DG systems is PV, followed by FC, RE, MT and WT.