A novel hybrid spherical fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approach to select the best hydroelectric power plant source in India

Hydroelectric power plants (HPPs) play a crucial role in India’s energy portfolio by providing renewable energy and decreasing dependency on fossil fuels. HPPs assist in flood control, irrigation, and water management, thereby supporting agricultural and economic advancement. However, persistent challenges such as environmental consequences, habitat depletion, and resettlement complications impede project advancement. Striking a balance between these advantages and addressing social and environmental issues is essential for shaping India’s energy trajectory. In this manuscript to achieve these goals, the research paper incorporates the opinions of three decision-makers along with 20 criteria. Each criterion is associated with 5 alternatives and further categorized as beneficial and non-beneficial. To determine the optimal power plant, a novel hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) method is employed within a spherical fuzzy environment to handle the uncertainties occurred in the HPPs. This paper also introduces a novel formula for calculating the weights of decision-makers and a novel score function for converting spherical fuzzy numbers into crisp values. Initially to examine the interrelationship between these criteria the spherical fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is utilized. The weight of the criteria is determined using the spherical fuzzy Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method, followed by determining the rank of the alternatives using the novel spherical fuzzy Multiple Criteria Ranking by Alternative Trace (MCRAT) method. Subsequently, the alternative with the highest score value is determined as the optimal choice for the hydroelectric power plant source in India. Furthermore, this research paper also discusses sensitivity analysis, comparative analysis, and the managerial implications of this study.