Exploring the climatic conditions effect on spatial urban photovoltaic systems development using a spatial multi-criteria decision analysis: A multi-city analysis

Identifying suitable locations for urban photovoltaic systems (UPVS) is crucial for achieving sustainable energy objectives and designing smart, eco-friendly cities. This study assesses the potential for UPVS expansion in eight cities across different climatic zones in Iran using a spatial multi-criteria decision-making method. Two scenarios were analyzed: the first compared spatial potential within each city, and the second compared potential between cities. The findings indicate that rooftops of the tallest buildings in densely populated areas, especially those with high solar energy output and sky view factor, hold the greatest potential for UPVS development. These locations are often near parks, commercial centers, and road networks. In the first scenario, Ardabil (5.70%), Gorgan (4.65%), Mashhad (5.46%), Tehran (8.10%), Kermanshah (5.76%), Shahrekord (3.41%), Kerman (8.67%), and Zahedan (8.56%) show significant potential for photovoltaic development. In the second scenario, cities in hot, dry climates like Zahedan and Kerman exhibit greater potential compared to cities in moderate, humid climates like Ardabil and Gorgan. Based on the analysis of this scenario, Ardabil (0.04%), Gorgan (1.49%), Mashhad (5.58%), Tehran (5.06%), Kermanshah (0.00%), Shaherkord (0.03%), Kerman (21.70%) and Zahedan (39.11%) showed a very high potential for UPVS development. The results of this study offer valuable insights for urban solar energy planning.