Strategy improvements to minimize the drawbacks of geothermal investments by using spherical fuzzy modelling

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the significant risks in geothermal energy investments. For this purpose, a model is suggested by considering the Spherical fuzzy DEMATEL technique. With the help of the literature examination, eight important risks are identified for these projects. In the following step, their weights are calculated so that more significant risk issues can be understood. Another calculation is also performed by triangular fuzzy DEMATEL to check the consistency of the analysis results. The results of both Spherical and triangular fuzzy DEMATEL techniques are similar. The most essential risk issues are the same for both methods that demonstrate the validity of the findings. The results indicate that the risk of accidents because of incorrect design-material use has the greatest importance since it has the highest weight. Moreover, the risks of decreased water resources and pollution of them also play a significant role in this regard. Great attention should be paid to the quality of the material to be used in geothermal energy facilities. Otherwise, there is a risk of explosion and fire in the facility. These problems threaten the lives of many people. In this process, states also have very important duties. Some standards should be determined for the quality of the material used in these facilities. In addition, the compliance of the quality of these materials with the regulations should be checked with the routine inspections. This situation will minimize the risk of accidents due to using poor-quality materials.