A multi-level evaluation model for the recognition and assessment of impact factors associated with intercontinental power interconnection projects

The construction of intercontinental power grid interconnection projects is key to realizing the vision of Global Energy Interconnection, which is to solve global energy problems in a clean and sustainable manner. These projects may be influenced by a few factors that are neither technological nor economic, such as political, social, and international factors. This paper thus presents a multi-level model for recognizing which factor from a compiled list of 14 would impact a particular intercontinental interconnection project and for assessing the degree of the factor’s influence. In the first part of the model, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method is used to recognize the project’s most significant impact factors. Using the recognition results, the second part of the model can assess the degree of the factor’s influence on the project based on ratings provided by experts. A comprehensive evaluation can thus be provided. As a case study, the proposed Saudi Arabia-Ethiopia power grid interconnection project connecting Asia and Africa was analyzed. Derived from a combination of multiple opinions from experts, evaluations from the model will be of direct benefit to decision-makers, investors, project implementers, and engineers, providing them with a deeper insight into the project.