Multi-criteria analysis as a support for national energy policy regarding the use of biomass: Case study of Serbia

Abstract

Decision makers make decisions taking into account many different factors. That is why different experiences, living standard and other "non-technical" conditions may lead to different decisions in different countries, or even regions of the same country. This paper deals with information gathered through a survey made among experts already dealing with different aspects of biomass use. Recognized factors influencing the wider use of biomass are arranged in a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats matrix. This matrix is used as a base to gather the opinions of the experts interviewed. Conclusions were made taking into account the most influential factors on the decision making process in biomass use according to the results. The questions of the survey were chosen according to existing results, as well as based on the authors' own experience and estimated relevance to the situation of the country analyzed (Republic of Serbia). The survey analysis covered the responses of 62 national experts in this field. Based on the gathered data, a proper multi-criteria analysis was done using the analytic hierarchy process and analytic network process methods. Afterwards, recommendations and comments to the decision makers and developers of national energy strategies are presented.