GIS multi-criteria for power plant site selection

Malaysia has been well enough qualified in order to operate own nuclear power plant for the long term energy needs preparation in electricity demands. The government has taking a step forward in order to reduce the reliance on gas. In this study, the role of AHP and GIS in determining the optimum location of nuclear power plant is explained, criteria for the site selection are outlined and the results for finding the optimum location of nuclear power plant are included. Raub District in Pahang was selected as a study site due to its topography meeting most of the investigated criteria. Seven criteria are considered in this analysis such as low population density, residential area, the access of the river, topography, land use, electricity infrastructure and land ownership. Moreover, the following steps are performed such as represent the criteria in GIS layers, undergo the GIS analysis in order to get the several propose sites and classify the criteria according to the weight value. The site suitability map is effective for assessing and reveals the rates of suitability for the nuclear power plant. The results of the site suitability assessment showed that Site E located at Ulu Dong was the most suitable area for locating the nuclear power plant, with covers an area of 10063.86 acres or 38% of the total area Furthermore, the map provides the foundation for decision makers in develop the nuclear power plant location.