Fuzzy analytical hierarchy process methods in changing the damming level of a small hydropower plant: Case study of Rosko SHP in Poland

Small hydropower plants are one of the most important renewable energy sources that do not degrade and consume natural resource. The paper presents a case study of an already operating small hydropower plant (SHP) and a potential increase in its energy production by raising the damming level. Three variants were defined and subjected to detailed analysing. The analyses used the Fuzzy AHP methodology (FAHP), which allowed for identifying the variant that has the best chance of being implemented in the context of administrative, legal and social realities of the country where an SHP is located. The adopted solution will increase electricity production by 108.78 MWh annually, while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 86000 kg CO2. The described methodology is of general use and can be applied in any country in the world.