Ukachukwu, O., Dike, B., Okeke, M. (2025). Identifying the most suitable sites for solar energy projects using GIS in Owerri, Imo state, Nigeria. , 43(5), 338-350. doi: 10.30684/etj.2025.152890.1803
Onyedikachi C. Ukachukwu; Benedicta U. Dike; Martin C. Okeke. "Identifying the most suitable sites for solar energy projects using GIS in Owerri, Imo state, Nigeria". , 43, 5, 2025, 338-350. doi: 10.30684/etj.2025.152890.1803
Ukachukwu, O., Dike, B., Okeke, M. (2025). 'Identifying the most suitable sites for solar energy projects using GIS in Owerri, Imo state, Nigeria', , 43(5), pp. 338-350. doi: 10.30684/etj.2025.152890.1803
Ukachukwu, O., Dike, B., Okeke, M. Identifying the most suitable sites for solar energy projects using GIS in Owerri, Imo state, Nigeria. , 2025; 43(5): 338-350. doi: 10.30684/etj.2025.152890.1803

Identifying the most suitable sites for solar energy projects using GIS in Owerri, Imo state, Nigeria

Engineering and Technology Journal
Volume 43, Issue 5, May 2025, Pages 338-350    PDF (6.42 M)
Document Type: Research Paper
DOI: 10.30684/etj.2025.152890.1803
Authors
Onyedikachi C. Ukachukwu* ; Benedicta U. Dike; Martin C. Okeke
Civil Engineering Dept., Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State Nigeria.
Abstract
This study explores the potential of renewable energy in Owerri Municipal, Nigeria, using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to identify optimal locations for renewable energy projects. The objective is to contribute to sustainable energy development by assessing the spatial distribution of renewable energy resources, evaluating environmental and socio-economic factors, and generating suitability maps for various renewable energy technologies. This was achieved by integrating GIS-based analysis with comprehensive data on solar radiation and Land Use Land Cover (LULC) types. Classifying LULC was a critical step in remote sensing, offering insights into various land cover classes' spatial distribution and dynamics. An aspect model was employed to determine slope orientation with maximum solar exposure. Proximity to road networks and grid stations in Owerri Municipal was also analyzed to identify the most accessible and motorable locations. Land surface temperature (LST), a measure of the earth's surface temperature, was also examined using data from the thermal Band-10 of the Landsat 8 OLI satellite. Combining these datasets and applying the weighted overlay tool, this research identified locations with the highest potential for renewable energy generation while minimizing negative environmental and socio-economic impacts. The results aim to assist policymakers, investors, and project developers in making informed decisions regarding renewable energy projects in Owerri Municipal and serve as a valuable reference for similar initiatives in other regions.

Highlights
  • Due to low slopes, south-facing aspects, and optimal temperatures, about 15% of the area is ideal for solar farms.
  • Factors include slope for efficiency, temperature for suitability, and road proximity for better accessibility.
  • Findings provide a framework for planning sustainable energy projects while reducing environmental and social impacts.
Keywords
Geographic Information System (GIS); Renewable Energy Projects; Suitability mapping; Owerri Municipal
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