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This paper proposes a site selection of large-scale grid-connected solar system in Algeria. A geographic information system-analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method was combined to identify and develop a high-resolution map of the most suitable sites for large-scale grid-connected solar system. A GIS database has been built for solar radiation, power grid, roads, cities, slope, land use and soil type. The data were gathered from different governmental organizations. However, a solar radiation map was developed using new approach. In order to test the impact of database raster resolution, the suitable zones are determined by performing a MCDM analysis using different (92 m, 250 m, 500 m and 1000 m) raster resolutions. The results show large improvements on solar radiation map compared to the previous work. A sensitivity analysis was done for three scenarios (AHP, equal weight, higher economic) which show that AHP method gives lager area of most suitable land. In addition, within raster resolution of 92 m, the most suitable zone for hosting large-scale grid-connected solar system represents 17% of the studied area, equivalent to more than 136 million GWh of energy produced. Moreover, more than 25,286 km2; was eliminated when using less resolution (1000 m) equivalent to 9.59 TWh, which demonstrated the high effect of raster resolution on the total power potential. The comparison of our results with those provided by renewable energy and energy efficiency development plan for PV projects indicated that 2 out of 21 projects are located inside of the optimal zone. For this reason, this work presents a helpful idea and significant results for policy makers to take decisions about implementing future solar projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Suitable sites for CSP plant are investigated using MCDM-GIS-based model. • A high resolution gridded datasets was applied. • New sunshine duration and updatable power grid are developed as digitized maps. • Sensitivity analysis was applied using value variability comparison by criterion. • The theoretical and technical potential of electricity generation are estimated. For future energy planning and sustainable development, the share of renewable energy in the national power production must be increased. For this reason, energy managers and deciders would impose models and strategies for future renewable energy planning development. The site selection of new renewable energy projects constitutes a huge challenge, due to the contributions of several factors in the decision-making process. This study has two main objectives, the first is to develop an alternative framework for site selection of large-scale parabolic trough concentrating solar power on-grid plants as an essential future solar power in Algeria. A Geographic Information System (GIS) based analysis combined with Multi Criteria Decision Making techniques to develop a high-resolution map that identify and classify the suitable locations for setting up these projects. Several criteria are used in GIS analysis process, a map of direct normal solar irradiation and sunshine duration were developed with high resolution of (92×92 m/pixel) and grid power map was presented in its updatable form. The prioritization degree of the available siting zones is presented through three scenarios where distinct opinions of different energy related groups are considered by using different weighting methods; EQual Weighted (EQW), Analytic Hierarchy Process(AHP) and Best Worst Method (BWM). Second, the paper assesses the theoretical and technical potential of energy generation using concentrating solar power plants. A sensitivity analysis is applied for the suitable lands and finally, the results show that approximately 11% of the study area is considered as available lands for concentrating solar power energy generation with yearly electricity generation 34,453 TWh. The provinces of Bechar, Naama, Elbayadh, Laghouat, Gherdaïa, and Ouargla presenting the large lands of most suitable class (approximately 15,384.73 km2 and 15,986.34 km2 in AHP and BWM scenario respectively. Where the energy generation can reach more than 2,100 TWh/year, which can cover 38 time the national electricity demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]