Identifying the Right Policies for Increasing the Efficiency of the Renewable Energy Transition with a Novel Fuzzy Decision-Making Model

Abstract

Necessary improvements should be made to the determinants of renewable energy transition. However, it is necessary to give priority to the issues that are more important while making improvements to this process since all improvements cause cost increase. Therefore, a new analysis is needed in which the most important ones among these criteria will be determined. The purpose of this study is to identify the most essential items for renewable energy transition. Within this context, five criteria are selected based on the literature review results. Spherical fuzzy (TOPSIS-based DEMATEL) TOP-DEMATEL methodology is taken into consideration to calculate the weights of these indicators. In the second part of the study, alternatives are ranked with Spherical fuzzy ranking technique by geometric mean of similarity ratio to optimal solution (RATGOS). In this context, BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) are selected as alternatives. The main contribution is that a new method (RATGOS) is created while considering geometric mean in proportional concepts. On the other side, a new methodology (TOP-DEMATEL) is also proposed to overcome criticisms in DEMATEL. It is concluded that technological development plays the most important role for the success of renewable energy transition. Similarly, finding effective financial source is also very important in this condition. The ranking results also demonstrate that China and Russia are the most successful countries regarding renewable energy transition. However, it is also defined that South Africa and India are less successful in renewable energy transition in comparing with other BRICS countries. It is understood that technological development plays a critical role in increasing the efficiency of the renewable energy transition process. Thanks to the use of up-to-date technology, it is possible to use energy resources more efficiently. Technological developments are also necessary for the efficiency of energy storage processes. Variations in climatic conditions cause irregularities in the energy production process. Thanks to the efficient energy storage processes, it is possible to solve this problem.