Multi-criteria analysis for the determination of the best locations for the wave energy exploitation in the Ria of Pontevedra

Nowadays, the actual geopolitical situation in Europe, in line with the energetic crisis, added to the depletion of fossil fuels, and its huge environmental impact, show a problem which requires a mid-long-term solution, reaching a more sustainable and efficiency way of powering the actual society. For this reason, within the framework of the policies of decarbonization of the economy promoted by European and local governments, a multitude of renewable energy sources are in the process of development. Among these energies is wave energy.The achievement of the highest efficiency of this energy production consists of two main factors. The analysis of the devices and the study of the zone.First, a characterization of the wave conditions in depth waters and its propagation to the study area was carried out, through the use of a numerical simulation model.To obtain the best location, a compilation of the shapefile layers made with a GIS software, to analyse that placement under a IMCZ (Integrated management of the coastal zone). After that, the wave power map was generated, then it was implemented a normalization of values, and finally, the best areas for the placement of the WEC were obtained through a multicriteria analysis.