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MULTICRITERIA EVALUATION AND DECISION SCENARIOS FOR THE INTEGRATION OF THE LIMBERG III HPP INTO THE ENERGY SYSTEM
Abstract
This study presents a multicriteria evaluation for the integration and development of the Limberg Pumped Storage Hydropower Plant (PSHP) in Austria. The research aims to identify the most sustainable and efficient solution to enhance energy storage capacity and operational flexibility within the national energy system. Three development scenarios were analyzed using a Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) based on the Analytic Network Process (ANP) implemented in Super Decisions (SD) software. Scenario 1 involves the rehabilitation of Limberg II and the enlargement of the lower reservoir by raising the dam crest. Scenario 2 proposes the construction of a new hydropower unit, Limberg III. Scenario 3 combines both strategies, involving the construction of Limberg III together with the dam crest elevation to increase storage capacity and system efficiency. Scenario 3 stands out as the most viable and resilient option from both technical and strategic perspectives. Its mixed development nature, integrating new infrastructure with modernization of existing facilities, ensures not only the highest analytical score obtained through the ANP-based evaluation but also the stability of this position under varying decision parameters.
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