As Greece transitions towards sustainable transportation, the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) necessitates a robust and strategically located charging infrastructure. Determining the most effective sites for EVCS deployment involves balancing various factors, including economic viability, environmental impact, social acceptance, and technological feasibility. The research titled “Optimizing electric vehicle charging station placement in greek municipalities through multi-criteria decision analysis”, developed a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework that incorporates a broad spectrum of criteria:
- Economic factors: installation and operational costs.
- Environmental considerations: potential reduction in emissions and ecological impact.
- Social aspects: community accessibility and public acceptance.
- Technological parameters: compatibility with existing infrastructure and future scalability.
To facilitate practical applications, the team developed a user-friendly, web-based application. This tool allows stakeholders to dynamically adjust the importance of each criterion and conduct sensitivity analyses tailored to specific locales.
The framework was tested in various municipalities across Crete, chosen for their diverse characteristics. The application effectively identified promising locations for EVCS deployment, highlighting key factors influencing investment decisions.
The study revealed that integrating multiple criteria through the MCDA framework provides a balanced approach to EVCS site selection. The web-based tool proved instrumental in visualizing trade-offs and supporting strategic planning, ensuring that selected sites align with both national sustainability goals and local community needs.
This research offers a replicable model for other regions aiming to enhance their EV infrastructure. By considering a comprehensive set of factors and involving stakeholders in the decision-making process, municipalities can make informed choices that promote the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Cover photo by Pixa Pexel
