Spatial-energy analysis of the potential transformation of thermal power plants to solar power plants on the territory of Kosovo district

Abstract

Combustion of fossil fuels in thermal power plants releases large quantities of pollutants, the excessive air emission of which leads to health problems of the nearby population but also the disturbance of the state of all elements of the environment. The operation of the thermal power plant in the municipality of Obilić and the emission of pollutants endanger the population of Kosovo District in a health and ecological sense. By valorization and elimination methods, the paper analyzes the natural and anthropogenic conditions that have the most significant impact on the potential construction of solar power plants which would completely replace the operation of the thermal power plant and all the quantity of electricity generated by coal combustion. Geographic information systems (GIS) were used to analyze and interpret factors affecting the spatial distribution of potential solar power plants: terrain slope, relief aspect, land use method, protected areas, the proximity of roads and settlements. By analyzing the above factors, thematic maps showing the most suitable surfaces were obtained. Overlaying of thematic maps gave a synthesis map which provides an adequate view of appropriate locations for the construction of solar power plants. A comparative analysis was done between the strength of the existing thermal power plant and the potential installed powers of solar power plants which would fully supply the area of Kosovo District, as well as other districts in the territory of A. P. Kosovo and Metohija.