• KSCE Journal of Civil and Environmental Engineering Research
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• v.43 no.3
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• pp.381-395
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• 2023

This paper presents a GIS-based site suitability analysis for a smart hydrogen energy plant in the Gangwon-Do region, South Korea. A GIS-based multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was implemented in this study to identify the most suitable sites for the development of smart hydrogen energy plants. The study utilizes various spatial data layers, including hydrogen generation potential and climatic conditions, environmental and topographic conditions, and natural catastrophic conditions, to evaluate the suitability of potential sites for the hydrogen energy plant. The spatial data layers were then used to rank and prioritize the sites based on suitability. The findings revealed that 4.26% of the study area, or 712.14 km², was suitable for constructing smart hydrogen energy plants. Some regions of Cheorwon-gun, Chuncheon-si, Wonju-si, Yanggu-gun, Gangneung-si, Hoengseong-gun, and near the coastal region along the east coast were found to be suitable for solar and wind energy utilization. The proposed MCDA provides a valuable tool for decision-makers and stakeholders to make informed decisions on the location of smart hydrogen energy plants and supports the transition to a sustainable and low-carbon energy system. Decision-makers can use the results of this study to select suitable sites for constructing smart hydrogen energy plants.