(1395_01_08) Koorosh Razavi Satvati's Dissertation _ Final Confirmed

PhD Dissertation Subject: Renewable Energy Projects
©Copyright Koorosh R. Satvati, January, 2016 Page 1 of 321
Decision-Making Factors that Lead to
Prioritisation and Approval of
Renewable Energy Projects
The Multiple Case Study of the Renewable Energy Projects in IRAN
A DISSERTATION
By
Koorosh Razavi Satvati
Submitted to SKEMA Business School, Lille
In partial fulfilment for the requirements for the degree of
Doctor of Philosophy in Strategy, Programme and Project Management
Scientific Research Director:
Pr. Rodney J. Turner (SKEMA Business School)
Supervisors:
1. Pr. Hiroshi Tanaka (SKEMA Business School: Main Supervisor)
2. Dr. Mehran Azaran (SKEMA Business School: Co-Supervisor)
January 2016

ABSTRACT
This research study has been construed as a qualitative case study on a recent developing
movement in Iran to increase the supply and diversified usage of renewable energy resources as
against traditional fossil sources to meet the required energy demand, by taking the case of Iranian
nautral gas sector. In this context, it attempts to scientifically find the essential decision-making
aspects and factors that lead to prioritisation and approval of the renewable energy projects and
thereafter, to analytically sort them according to their perceived degrees of assumedly positive and
negative impacts. Furthermore, it seeks to propose appropriate recommendations for the strategic
action planning activities executed by the top managers as principal decision-makers of the
targeted energy, particularly natural gas companies.
The study has objectively investigated the current state of renewable energy resources and
nationwide utilisation programmes in Iran in order to find key opportunities and action plans for
renewable energy deployment improvement as a guide for promoting a more positive and
optimum decision-making process. Hence, the findings from this research study can be reflected
as a contribution to the existing relevant body of knowledge and concept.
The research has confirmed that there is a substantial relationship between decision-makers’
perceptions or visions towards implementing renewable energy projects and their final decisions.
The literature review in this study has identified forty six factors founded on nineteen decision-
making aspects. They have been rated on their impact through a questionnaire survey responded
by the energy managers or senior experts working in the Iranian natural gas refineries and related
administrative centres/departments in Iran as the first case study.
The second case study on Renewable Energy Organisation of Iran (SUNA) by means of
interviews into responsible managers/experts has led to a list of proposed strategic
recommendations and action plans.

According to the research findings, consolidation of the required infrastructure for the promotion
of positive utilisation of renewables with respect to legal and regulatory, system structural,
technological, cultural, financial, industrial, and political aspects has the highest priority as a
strategic programme towards the expected achievement.
Key Words: Renewable Energy, Project, Decision Making, Natural Gas Processing Company (Natural
Gas Treating Company, Natural Gas Refinery), Renewable Energy Organisation of Iran
(SUNA)

DECLARATION OF AUTHORSHIP / ORIGINALITY
I certify that this thesis, “Decision-Making Factors that Lead to Prioritisation and Approval
of Renewable Energy Projects: Multiple Case Study of the Renewable Energy Projects in
IRAN”, has not previously been submitted for any degree, nor has it been submitted as a part of
requirements for any degree in another university.
I also certify that it has been written and prepared by me. Any help that I have received in my
research work has been acknowledged. In addition, all sources and literature used have been
indicated in this dissertation.
Koorosh R. Satvati

DEDICATION
To my father _his great spirit_;
whose memory always inspires me the value of education and the desire towards enlightenment.
To my kind mother;
whose concern and attention always cause me the feeling of vigor and contentment.
To my kind father-in-law and mother-in-law _her newly passed away kind soul_;
whose support and attention always bring me mental comfort and advancement.
In particular, to my beloved spouse;
Roshanak
whose influencing help, persuasion, encouragement and kind companion always direct me to
continual improvement.
And finally, to my two dear sons;
Kian and Aryan
for whom, I wish all the best and happiness throughout their beautiful lives.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Looking back to the whole journey of my PhD, even before starting and while wishing on my
mind; I wish to express my most sincere gratitude and deepest thanks to everyone who supported
me along the way. It is not possible to mention all their names here, but I wish the best for all of
them.
I admire all efforts conducted by Professor Rodney J. Turner and other splendid SKEMA faculty
members. I appreciate the entire lessons-learned during training-courses which were lectured by
great professors, professionals and friends/colleagues during the seminars e.g. EDEN within the
past five years. In addition, my special thanks should go to other honorable SKEMA directors
and/or managers for their strategic and outstanding activities towards continual improvement and
evolution in all multi-directional related areas. Besides, I appreciate from the kind and careful
programme administrators who supported me very well.
Finally and notably, I am deeply grateful to my great supervisors; Professor Hiroshi Tanaka and
Doctor Mehran Azaran whose fabulous and invaluable feedbacks and guidance gave me
applicable insights for incredible and astonishing progress.
I think all PhD students usually experience some degree of turbulence and/or changes in the
environment surrounding them, fluctuations and uncertainties during their PhD studying career. It
was the same to me, as well. However, attending at the main compulsory courses and some optional
ones scheduled for the PhD programme in SKEMA business school; Lille, France and also the
doctoral EDEN international seminars be held annually there, caused many marvelous ideas being
ignited in me to realize how to start and walk along my thesis journey.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1
ABSTRACT ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2
DECLARATION OF AUTHORSHIP / ORIGINALITY --------------------------------------------- 4
DEDICATION ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
TABLE OF CONTENTS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
LIST OF FIGURES --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
LIST OF TABLES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION -------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
1-1: Preface ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 20
1-2: Background ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 21
1-2-1: Statement of the Problem ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
1-2-2: Research Questions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 22
1-2-3: Propositions --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
1-2-4: Business Issue to Be Addressed ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
1-2-5: How will resolving of the current problem help the targeted organisations? ------------------- 25
1-3: Aim and Objectives --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
1-3-1: Research Aim ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
1-3-2: Research Objectives ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW ---------------------------------------------------------- 27
2-1: (A) Decision Making; (B) Project, Programme and Portfolio Management --------------- 27
2-1-1: Decision Making --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
2-1-2: Decision Making Theories ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28
2-1-2-1: Agency Theory ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
2-1-2-2: Bandit Theory -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
2-1-2-3: Open System Decision Making ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 31
2-1-2-4: Financial Appraisal profile ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31
2-1-2-5: Expected Commercial Value Method ----------------------------------------------------------------- 32

2-1-2-6: Benefit/Cost Ratio and Profitability Index ------------------------------------------------------------ 32
2-1-2-7: Bubble Diagrams for Project Mapping ----------------------------------------------------------------- 33
2-1-2-8: Prospect Theory ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
2-1-2-9: Normative Decision Theory ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
2-1-2-10: Behavioral Decision Theory --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
2-1-2-11: Decision Theory ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
2-1-2-12: Probability Theory -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36
2-1-2-13: Expected Utility Theory -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36
2-1-2-14: Group Decision Making -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36
2-1-2-15: Bureaucratic Model ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 37
2-1-2-16: Equilibrium-Conflict Resolution Theory ------------------------------------------------------------- 37
2-1-2-17: Analytical Hierarchy Process -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 38
2-1-3: Project, Programme and Portfolio -------------------------------------------------------------------- 39
2-1-3-1: Project ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 40
2-1-3-2: Programme ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 40
2-1-3-3: Portfolio ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 40
2-1-3-4: Portfolio Management ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 41
2-1-3-5: Project, Programme, and Portfolio Management Office --------------------------------------------- 41
2-1-4: The Organisational View of Projects ----------------------------------------------------------------- 41
2-1-5: Failure Causes in Decision Making and Projects --------------------------------------------------- 45
2-2: Energy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
2-2-1: General Subjects and their Brief Explanations ------------------------------------------------------- 47
2-2-1-1: Energy, Units and Conversion Factors ----------------------------------------------------------- 48
2-2-1-2: Renewable Energy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
2-2-1-3: Solar Energy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 51
2-2-1-4: Wind Energy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
2-2-1-5: Geothermal Energy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
2-2-1-6: Biomass Energy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 54
2-2-1-7: Bio-Fuels ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 54
2-2-1-8: Hydro-Power -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 54
2-2-1-9: Wave Power, Tidal Power and Ocean Currents -------------------------------------------------- 55
2-2-1-10: Nuclear Energy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55
2-2-1-11: Natural Gas (NG) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55
2-2-1-12: Coal ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
2-2-1-13: Geographic Information System (GIS) --------------------------------------------------------- 57
2-2-1-14: Primary and Secondary Energy Commodities -------------------------------------------------- 57
2-2-1-15: Waste -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 58
2-2-1-16: Carbon Dioxide (CO2) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 58
2-2-1-17: Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) --------------------------------------------------------------------- 59
2-2-1-18: Global Climate Change ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59

2-2-1-19: Energy Portfolio --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59
2-2-1-20: Energy Technologies ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 60
2-2-1-21: Conventional Power ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 60
2-2-1-22: Green Technology ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 60
2-2-1-23: Combined Heat and Power (CHP) -------------------------------------------------------------- 60
2-2-1-24: Distributed Generation -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
2-2-1-25: Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) ----------------------------------------------------------- 61
2-2-1-26: Renewables Energy Certificate (REC) --------------------------------------------------------- 61
2-2-1-27: IEA (The International Energy Agency) and OECD (The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
2-2-1-28: IRENA (The International Renewable Energy Agency) --------------------------------------- 62
2-2-2: Global Energy Demand, Consumption and Some Economic Statistics toward More Renewables ------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
2-2-3: Energy Condition and Some Statistics in Iran ------------------------------------------------------- 68
2-2-4: Energy Modeling ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
2-2-5: Sustainability and Renewable Energy ---------------------------------------------------------------- 75
2-2-6: Commercialization of Renewable Energy Technologies ------------------------------------------ 76
2-2-7: Decision Support Systems in the Pathway of Renewable Energies Use ------------------------- 79
2-2-8: Renewable Energy Project Development Process -------------------------------------------------- 79
2-2-9: Global Solar and Wind Atlas -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 81
2-2-10: Converting of Renewable Energies into Electric Power ----------------------------------------- 82
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY -------------------------------------------------- 88
3-1: Research Paradigm ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 89
3-2: Research Philosophy--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 91
3-3: Ontology and Epistemology------------------------------------------------------------------------ 91
3-4: Research Approach---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 93
3-4-1: Research Design ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 95
3-4-2: Main Steps and Milestones of the Present Research Design ---------------------------------- 95
3-4-3: Chain of Evidence -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 96
3-5: Philosophical Research Strategy ----------------------------------------------------------------- 101
3-6: Research Methods---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
3-6-1: Questionnaire and Interview ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
3-6-2: Case Study ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 104

3-6-2-1: The Position of Case-based Research --------------------------------------------------------------- 105
3-6-2-2: Rigor in Case Study Research ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 106
3-6-3: Summary ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 109
3-7: Data Collecting Methods ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 111
3-7-1: Gathering Decision Making Aspects/Factors for Prioritisation and Approval of Renewable Energy Projects ----------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 112
3-7-2: Case-Study One: Natural Gas Processing Companies in Iran ---------------------------------- 112
3-7-3: Case-Study Two: Iran Renewable Energy Organisation (SUNA) ----------------------------- 115
CHAPTER 4: DATA COLLECTIONS AND FINDINGS ------------------------------------ 119
4-1: Decision Making Aspects/Factors for Prioritisation and Approval of Renewable Energy Projects ------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 119
4-1-1: Step One- Adopting Items from Each Reference Reviewed ---------------------------------- 119
4-1-2: Step Two- Merging the 270 Adopted Items to Produce the Final List ---------------------- 135
4-1-3: Step Three- The Final List of Decision Making Factors/Aspects ------------------------------ 166
4-2: Gathered Data from Questionnaires and Sorted Aspects/Factors based on Their Degrees of Perceived
Influence ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 169
4-3: Gathered Data from Interviews and Categorized Answers to Each Question ------------ 181
4-3-1: Interview Question 1, Answers and Proposed Actions to be taken ---------------------------- 182
4-3-2: Interview Question 2, Answers and Proposed Actions to be taken ---------------------------- 198
4-3-3: Combined Proposed Actions to be taken relevant to Interview Questions 1 and 2----------- 209
4-3-4: Interview Question 3, Answers and Analysis ----------------------------------------------------- 211
CHAPTER 5: DISCUSSIONS AND RESULTS ------------------------------------------------ 223
5-1: Propositions, Discussions and Results ---------------------------------------------------------- 223
5-1-1: Investigations and Discussions about each Proposition ------------------------------------------ 227
5-1-1-1: Proposition 1 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 227
5-1-1-2: Proposition 2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 228
5-1-1-3: Proposition 3 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 229
5-1-1-4: Proposition 4 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 230
5-1-1-5: Proposition 5 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 231
5-1-1-6: Proposition 6 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 233
5-1-1-7: Proposition 7 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 234

5-1-1-8: Proposition 8 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 235
5-1-1-9: Proposition 9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 237
5-1-1-10: Proposition 10 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 240
5-2: Strategic Recommendations and Proposed Action Plans ------------------------------------ 241
CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 242
6-1: Conclusion ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 242
6-2: Limitations ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 247
CHAPTER 7: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE INVESTIGATIONS ----------- 249
CHAPTER 8: REFERENCES ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 250
8-1: Reference List ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 250
8-2: Categorized Reference Lists --------------------------------------------------------------------- 273
8-2-1: References according to the Type ------------------------------------------------------------------ 274
8-2-2: References in Chronological Order ---------------------------------------------------------------- 279
APPENDIX-1: The Literature Review Coding Matrix and Table ------------------------------ 282
APPENDIX-2: Bi-Lingual Request Letter Sent to the Respondents --------------------------- 283
APPENDIX-3: Bi-Lingual Invitation Package for Completing the Questionnaire ----------- 285
APPENDIX-4: Bi-Lingual Questionnaire ---------------------------------------------------------- 293
APPENDIX-5: Interview Questions and Interviewees’ Views and Answers ----------------- 294

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2-0001: Risk-Reward Bubble Diagram of Company T. ………………………….………... 34
Figure 2-0002: A Three Level Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) …………………………...…. 38
Figure 2-0003: Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Flow Chart …………………………………. 39
Figure 2-0004: A Project-Oriented Organisation in its Context …………...………….…………… 42
Figure 2-0005: Projects, Programmes and Portfolios in an Organisation ……..…………………… 43
Figure 2-0006: The Technical and Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Project Management …..……… 44
Figure 2-0007: Solar PV Atlas, Solar power in Harmony with Nature ………….………………… 52
Figure 2-0008: A Wind Farm Shutting Down and then Restarting due to a Period of High Wind Speed
…………………………………………………………………………………………. 53
Figure 2-0009: Generalized Natural Gas Processing Block Flow Diagram ………...…………...… 56
Figure 2-0010: Terminology for Energy Commodities …………………….……………………… 58
Figure 2-0011: Estimated Renewable Energy Share of Global Final Energy Consumption, 2012 ... 64
Figure 2-0012: Electricity Demand and Share of Electricity …………………………………..…… 65
Figure 2-0013: World Renewables Share of Power Generation by Region ……..…..……………… 66
Figure 2-0014: Renewable Energy Cost Trends ……..…………..……………….………………… 66
Figure 2-0015: Clean Energy Investments Depending on Oil Prices ……..……….………….……. 67
Figure 2-0016: Cumulative Global Energy Supply Investment by Type in the New Policies Scenario,
2014-2035 ……………………………………..……………..………………………… 68
Figure 2-0017: Iran Oil and Gas Map ……………..……………………...………………………… 70
Figure 2-0018: World Primary Energy Consumption in 2013 per capita …………………………… 71
Figure 2-0019: Energy Flow in Iran in 2006 ……………………………………..…….…………… 72
Figure 2-0020: Energy Flow in Iran in 2012 ………………………………………………..…….… 72
Figure 2-0021: Policy Maps _ Countries with Renewable Energy Policies, 2005 ……..…………… 74
Figure 2-0022: Policy Maps _ Countries with Renewable Energy Policies, Early 2014 …....……… 74
Figure 2-0023: Technology Triangulation Model for Technology Commercialization ……..……… 77
Figure 2-0024: Renewable Energy Project Development Process …………………..……………… 80
Figure 2-0025: Use of Resource Data in Project Development …………………..………………… 80

Figure 2-0026: Bi-Directional Power Flows May Result from the Use of Dispersed Electricity Generation
Technologies, particularly Time-Varying Renewable Energy Generation ….………... 82
Figure 2-0027: Underground Storage of Electricity from Photovoltaic Farms in the Form of Compressed
Air in the U.S.A. ………………………………………………………….…………… 84
Figure 2-0028: Cost of Electricity Generation in the MENA Region ……………………………… 84
Figure 2-0029: Levelized Cost of New Power Generation Technologies in 2008 ….……………… 86
Figure 3-0001: Main Steps and Milestones of the Present Research Design in an Overall View ..… 95
Figure 3-0002: Chain of Evidence in this Research – Overall View …………..………....………… 98
Figure 3-0003: Chain of Evidence in this Research – The Relationships between Research Questions and
Propositions …………..……….…………………………………………………..…… 99
Figure 3-0004: Chain of Evidence in this Research – The Relationships between Interview Questions and
Propositions …………..……….…………………………………..……..…………… 100
Figure 3-0005: Exploration-Description-Explanation-Testing Cycle ……….….……………….… 107
Figure 3-0006: Research Strategy ……………………………………………….….………..….… 110
Figure 3-0007: Iran Renewable Energy Organisation Main Office in Tehran .…………..…..…… 115
Figure 4-0001: The Force-Yield View of the Decision-Making Aspects that Lead to Prioritisation and
Approval of Renewable Energy Projects …………………………..……………..….. 168
Figure 4-0002: The Force-Yield View of the Decision-Making Factors that Lead to Prioritisation and
Approval of Renewable Energy Projects ……………………..…………………..….. 175
Figure 4-0003: Total Results Chart: Mean of Evaluated Scores given to the Decision-Making Factors
(both Positive and Negative) in a descending order ……..……………..…………….. 177
Figure 4-0004: Total Results Chart: Median of Evaluated Scores given to the Decision-Making Factors
(both Positive and Negative) ……………………..……………………………….….. 178
Figure 4-0005: Decision-Making Factors with Positive Impacts in a descending order ……..…… 179
Figure 4-0006: Decision-Making Factors with Negative Impacts in a descending order ….……… 180
Figure 5-0001: Relationships between Propositions and Decision-Making Factors/Answers to Interview
Questions………………………………………………………………….…..……… 224
Figure 5-0002: Relationships between Propositions and Decision-Making Factors ………….….. 225
Figure 5-0003: Relationships between Propositions and Answers to Interview Questions …….... 226

Figure 5-0004: Theoretical Framework for Proposition-9 _ Relationships among R.Q.’s,
Improbable/Probable Status and Outcomes ………………………………………... 238
Figure 6-0001: What Has Been Done in this Research based on AHP (Analytical Hierarchy Process)
Decision-Making Theory …………………………………………………………... 243
Figure 8-0001: Number of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Pie-Chart) ……..….…. 275
Figure 8-0002: Number of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Column-Chart) ….…... 276
Figure 8-0003: Percentage of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Pie-Chart) ……...… 277
Figure 8-0004: Percentage of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Column-Chart) ....... 278
Figure 8-0005: Number of References in Chronological Order (Column-Chart) ………….….... 280
Figure 8-0006: Number of References in Chronological Order (Pie-Chart) ……….………….... 281

LIST OF TABLES
Table 2-0001: Project, Programme and Portfolio – Main Issues and Differences ………....…..….. 41
Table 2-0002: Energy Units Conversion Factors …...………………………..…………..…….….. 50
Table 2-0003: Relevant Data to Be Considered for Integration into the Atlas in the Long-Term .... 81
Table 2-0004: Cost Calculation of Electricity from Various Sources …...………………..……….. 85
Table 3-0001: Advantages and Disadvantages of Interviews and Questionnaires ……………….. 103
Table 3-0002: Framework for Research Methods …………………………………….………….. 105
Table 3-0003: Natural Gas Processing Companies (Refineries) of Iran ..........…………….…….. 114
Table 4-0001: Calculation of the mean of the ratings for each positive factor .......………..…….. 170
Table 4-0002: Calculation of the mean of the ratings for each negative factor .......……….…….. 171
Table 4-0003: Interviewees of SUNA Managers and Specialists .......……………………..…….. 181

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS in alphabetical order
1 A: Amperes (amps) RMS
2 AC: Alternating Current
3 AEO: Annual Energy Outlook
4 AEO2013: Annual Energy Outlook 2013
5 AEO2014: Annual Energy Outlook 2014
6 AHP: Analytic Hierarchy Process
7 B.G.P.C.: Bidboland Gas Processing Company
8 bbl: barrels
9 BOCR: Benefits, Opportunities, Costs and Risks
10 BOD: Biological Oxygen Demand
11 CAPM: Capital Asset Pricing Model
12 CCS: Carbon-dioxide Capture and Storage
13 CDM: Clean Development Mechanism
14 CEF: Clean Energy Fund
15 CER: Certified Emission Reductions
16 CHP: Combined Heat and Power (Plant)
17 CNG: Compressed Natural Gas
18 CO: Carbon monOxide
19 CO2: Carbon Dioxide
20 COD: Chemical Oxygen Demand
21 CPI: Climate Policy Initiative
22 CPV: Concentrator photovoltaic
23 CREST: Cost of Renewable Energy Spreadsheet Tool
24 CREX: Global Corporate Renewable Energy Index
25 CSR: Corporate Social Responsibility
26 CT: Combustion Turbine
27 CT: Current Transformer
28 DC: Direct Current
29 DG: Distributed Generation
30 DOE: U.S. Department of Energy
31 DSM: Demand-Side Management
32 DSS: Decision Support System
33 ECV: Expected Commercial Value
34 EFCA: European Federation of Engineering Consultancy Associations
35 EfD: Education for Sustainability
36 EFPS: Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard
37 EIA: Environmental Impact Assessment
38 EPA: U.S.A. Environmental Protection Agency
39 EPM: Enterprise Project Management
40 ES: Earned Schedule
41 ESD: Ecologically Sustainable Development
42 ESD: Education for Sustainable Development

43 EUMENA: Europe, the Middle East and North Africa
44 EV: Earned Value
45 EVM: Earned Value Management
46 F.G.P.C.: Fajr-e-Jam Gas Processing Company
47 FANP: Fuzzy Analytic Network Process
48 FAP: Financial Appraisal Profile
49
FIDIC: Federation Internationale des Ingenieurs Conseils (French)
[International Federation of Consulting Engineers]
50 FIT: Feed in Tariffs
51 GAO: Government Accontability Office of USA
52 GDP: Gross Domestic Product
53 GEF: Global Environment Facility
54 GHG: greenhouse gas
55 GIS: Geographic Information System
56 GJ: GigaJoule, or one joule x 109 (see joule)
57 GMDP: Good Market Development Policy
58 GNP: Gross National Products
59 GW: Gigawatts
60 GWEC: Global Wind Energy Counsil
61 GWEO: Global Wind Energy Outlook
62 HDM: Hierarchical Decision Model
63 HVDC: High Voltage Direct Current
64 I.G.P.C.: Ilam Gas Processing Company
65 IDM: Integrated Decision Making
66 IEA: International Energy Agency
67 IPCC: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
68 IRENA: International Renewable Energy Agency
69 IRR: Internal Rate of Return
70 IRR: Iranian Rial [Iranian National Currency]
71 IS: Information System
72 ISES: International Solar Energy Society
73 ISM: Interpretive Structural Modeling
74 J: joule
75 JDM: Judgemental Decision-Making
76 kWh: killowatt/hour, or one watt x one hour x 103
77 LNG: Liquefied Natural Gas
78
LPG: Liquefied Petroleum Gases; refers to propane, butane and their isomers, which are
gases at atmospheric pressure and normal temperature
79 M.S.G.P.C.: Masjed-Soleiman Gas Processing Company
80 MB: Market Barriers
81 MBtu: million British termal units
82 MCDM: Multiple Criteria Decision Model
83 MENA: The Middle East and North Africa
84 Mm3
: million cubic meters
85 MMbbl/d: Million Barrels per Day

86 MNC: Multinational Corporations
87 MS: Masters of Science
88 MT: Market Transformation
89 Mtoe: Million tons of oil equivalent
90 MW: MegaWatt, or one watt x 106
91 N.I.G.C.: National Iranian Gas Company
92 N: Negative
93 NGL: Natural Gas Liquids
94 Nm3
: Normal cubic meter
95 NOx: Nitrogen Oxides
96 NPV: Net Present Value
97 O&M: Operations and Maintenance
98 OB: Organisational Behavior
99 OECD: Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
100 OM: Operations Management
101 OPEC: Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries
102 OR/MS: Operations Research/ Management Science
103 P.G.P.C.: Parsian Gas Processing Company
104 P: Positive
105 P: Real (active) Power
106 PBP: PayBack Period
107 PERT: Project Evaluation and Review Technique
108 PhD: Philosophy of Doctorate
109 PPM: Project Portfolio Management
110 PPP: Project Portfolio Process
111 PPP: Project, Programme and Portfolio
112 Pr.: Proposition
113 PV: PhotoVoltaic
114 Q.G.P.C.: Sarkhoon-o-Qeshm Gas Processing Company
115 R & D : Research and Development
116 R: Reference
117 RAI: Return on Average Investment
118 RD & D : Research, Development and Deployment
119 RE: Renewable Energy
120 REC: Renewable Energy Credit/s
121 RES: Renewable Energy Source/s
122 RET: Renewable Energy Technologies
123 ROI : Return On Investments
124 RPS: Renewable Portfolio Standards
125 RQ : Research Questions
126
S.G.P.C.: Shahid-Hashemi_Nezhad Gas Processing Company (i.e. Khangiran Gas
Treating Plant)
127 S.P.G.C.: South Pars Gas Complex
128 SEA: Strategic Environmental Assessment

129 SLV: San Luis Valley
130 SWERA: The Solar, Wind and Energy Resource Assessment
131 TA: Technology Assessment
132 TAP: Technology Action Plan(s)
133 TOC: Goldratt's Theory of Constraints
134 toe: ton of oil equivalent
135 UNIDO: United Nations Industrial Development Organisation
136 US EIA: United States Energy Information Administration
137 VA: Voluntary Agreement(S)
138 W: Watts

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1-1: Preface
The nations are being faced with the growing demand for energy resources and as the result, so
many challenges and/or disasters have been created due to the supply of this developing
requirement. Therefore, man is obliged to have appropriate strategies and proper action plans for a
reasonable and sustainable life style at the moment, and reserve at least anything necessary to the
next generations for the mankind as well as all creatures. Because, they are absolutely inter-
connected.
Many companies are under terrific pressure and surveillance to achieve their operational
excellence in order to take maximized benefit out of their resources in a responsible and
conscientious manner. Decision-making factors; which help to constitute explicit scenarios, can
be applied to optimize relevant business and professional processes and in this way, bring control
to the overwhelming amount of information that drives the organisation. In addition, corporate
governance usually mandates that the workforce has the correct direction and the latest
information to perform more efficiently satisfying fundamental performance requirements such as
safety, consistency and compliance with the defined goals and objectives in the company by
implementing and executing the strategic actions.
In general, energy cost is one of the outstanding expenses or a large proportion of total costs in
the financial balance of each energy consumer in industrial and/or non-industrial centres. Hence,
managers pay particular attention to driving them down. Energy consumers are usually divided
into the producers, the business companies, the households, the vehicles and so on. Traditionally,
the consumers have supplied their energy demand with fossil energy resources, because of their
tangible experience of accessibility, availability and reliability in terms of both utilization
technology and user-friendly characteristics as resources; this experience has formed a significant
motive force. On the contrary, in modern energy management strategies, this motive force is

turning out to take on a different aspect. The contemporary policy-makers consider that the
renewable energies are more accessible, available and reliable; and at top of all, they believe that
these resources have an important characteristic called; "ease of operations". They also emphasize
that the reliability will be increased drastically if renewable energy resources are used in hybrid
forms.
Foggy environment, non-clarity and insufficient knowledge concerning renewable energy usage
in parallel to the lack of optimized decision-making mechanisms have yielded primary reasons for
neglecting these important and never-ending resources while defining or revising the energy
management policies and strategies for the consumers. One of the necessary managerial attempts
in this field i.e. the probable first stage is known as the identification of the relevant decision-
making factors. The next step can be the exploration of their inter-relationships bearing in mind
their influential importance or weight percentages to generate the whole perceptive mechanism.
The final step can be the generation of the scenario(s) for better decisions made by any company's
top management to cope with this challenge.
Watching through the technological, economic, and political aspects, Taylor (2012) argues that
‘there is a complex interplay between technological and economic factors influencing the
deployment of renewable technologies, the relative cost of generating energy from different
sources, and the broader political and economic cycles.’
1-2: Background
This section has been divided into five sub-sections as follow:
1-2-1: Statement of the problem
1-2-2: Research questions
1-2-3: Propositions
1-2-4: Business issue to be addressed
1-2-5: How will resolving of the current problem help the targeted organisations?

1-2-1: Statement of the Problem
The researcher’s literature review and unstructured ethnographical observations while working as
an energy specialist, consultant and/or manager in some industrial companies such as
petrochemical complexes and natural gas refineries in Iran has led him to the formation of the
following problem to be researched on the foundation of a doctoral thesis:
The Problem: There is no evident strategic recommendations, i.e. motive force1
to define,
prioritise, and approve the implementation of energy projects using the
renewable energy resources in industrial companies e.g. natural gas refineries
in Iran.
(1
Motive force = logic, algorithm, desire, emergency, motivation, legislation and/or even legal obligation)
1-2-2: Research Questions
1. What are the essential decision-making aspects/factors affecting prioritisation and
approval of renewable energy projects?
2. How can these essential decision-making aspects/factors which are categorized mainly
into two types: one with assumedly positive impacts and the other with negative impacts
be sorted based on their degrees of perceived influence?
3. What are the strategic recommendations for the strategic action planning activities
executed by top managers as principal decision-makers of the targeted companies?
1-2-3: Propositions
Proposition 1 (Pr.-1): Fear of negative impact on stability and continuity of production as a result
of implementing renewable energy projects is the hardest hurdle for decision
makers to take a positive attitude toward renewable energy.

Proposition 2 (Pr.-2): Implementation experience in other companies plays a highly important role
to raise the perceptional confidence or assurance in the decision making
process.
Proposition 3 (Pr.-3): Being able to recognize which type of renewable energy is usable can be a
significant contributing factor to facilitate the decision making process.
Proposition 4 (Pr.-4): Historical experience record on energy efficiency promotion on the ground
of lower energy consumption and/or higher energy harvest influences on the
prioritisation and approval of renewable energy projects.
Proposition 5 (Pr.-5): Improvement in financial and economic parameters such as revenue, benefit
amount, and investment savings can have extensive impact upon making
decisions for including renewable energy projects in portfolio.
Proposition 6 (Pr.-6): Predicted time required to produce outcomes, positive influence, and life
expectancy of renewable energy recovery are amongst highest priorities in
decision making activities.
Proposition 7 (Pr.-7): Necessity for great changes in current production systems can impact the
psychology of decision makers in their Prioritisation and approval.
Proposition 8 (Pr.-8): Improvement of public knowledge and awareness pertaining to the
advantages of renewable energy resources can impact favorably the decision
making.
Proposition 9 (Pr.-9): A significant relationship is assumed to exist between decision-makers’
perceptions or visions towards implementing renewable energy projects and
their final decisions.

Proposition 10 (Pr.-10): Nationwide promotion of practical uses and optimum utilization of
renewable energy can be taken into place more successfully by
governmental companies in comparison to private sector companies.
1-2-4: Business Issue to Be Addressed
Iranian energy consumers have been categorized into the following three main sections:
1. Industrial Centres e.g. Complexes and Factories
2. Residential, Business and Trading Centres
3. Transports
They have the opportunity to revise their energy-usage strategies and performance in a way that
the fossil resources are replaced by the renewable or green energies partially or completely
founded on a mixed or hybrid form. Moreover, the energy consumers may adopt an effective
energy policy based on sustainability features.
For instance, one of the largest power generation plants in India; called Tata, has a policy in
energy management which can be well thought-out as a highly useful perspective adapted with
the aim of the current research or dissertation topic. Tata declares that ‘the corporate sustainability
integrates (1)
economic progress; (2)
social responsibility; (3)
environmental concerns; with the
objective of improving the quality of life for all stakeholders, now and for generations to come.
They view it as an opportunity to make a difference and remain committed to the issues of (A)
resource conservation; (B)
energy efficiency; (C)
environment protection; and (D)
enrichment and
development of local communities in and around their areas of operations. In their drive towards
clean environment, they are trying to set standards in the development and implementation of
cutting edge eco-friendly technologies and processes for energy management. They are working
with policy-makers and regulators to; (1)
advance technology; (2)
strengthen the renewable energy

portfolio; (3)
accelerate the development of cost effective energy efficiency programmes; and (4)
manage consumers' demand for electricity.’ They state that “Sustainability is a journey, not a
destination.” (Tata’s Energy Management Policy, 2012)
1-2-5: How will resolving of the current problem help the targeted organisations?
In fact, there is a “MUST” for all people and organisations. This “MUST” has resulted from the
social responsibility for keeping or maintaining fossil energy resources as an invaluable property
for next generations, the environmental responsibility for less carbon emission or moving towards
clean development mechanism (CDM) policy, and wisely strategic management of switching
from fossils into renewable energy resources before reaching to almost end or very highly
expensive development of fossil resources due to their shortage as discussed previously.
The resulted outcome of this research is recommending strategic recommendations for policy-
making processes.
1-3: Aim and Objectives
1-3-1: Research Aim
This research is to find decision-making aspects/factors and propose the strategic
recommendations which can be applied by the energy manager or energy management department
of the targeted companies for convincing, persuading or even leading the decision-makers to
perform more efficiently in the process of prioritisation and approval of renewable energy
projects in project portfolio of their corresponding companies.

1-3-2: Research Objectives
The objectives of this research are as follow:
1. Exploring, gathering, evaluating and integrating existent literature on the essential
decision-making aspects/factors that would affect the process of prioritisation and
approval of renewable energy projects of the targeted companies;
2. Proposing strategic recommendations founded on the decision-making aspects/factors;
3. Analysing and validating the proposed strategic recommendations with regard to the
experiences, insights or practical and professional perceptions of the energy managers
and senior specialists who are currently responsible for renewable energy management;
4. Finalizing the strategic recommendations as an inductive enquiry resulted from
scientific thinking and investigating offered to the targeted companies

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
2-1: (A) Decision Making; (B) Project, Programme and Portfolio
2-1-1: Decision Making
“Decision-Making” in managerial activities is defined as the process of choosing a specific
alternative for execution in parallel to the “evaluation” process conveying a quantitative value to
each associated alternative or by providing information which illuminates properties of each
alternative. (Nutt, 1976) Whereas, Stefanovic M. and I. (2005) introduce the “decision-making”
as a kind of judgement under conditions of uncertainty. They continue that the process stands up
on the basis of knowledge from earlier experience grounded on our unconscious sensation which
is sufficient for most decisions that are simple. On the other hand, with growing ambiguity and/or
an increasing number of independent variables, decisions become more difficult and our natural
conclusions become less reliable. At that situation, we require reliable procedures and
mechanisms to support us for making more intelligent choices between different subjects.
(Stefanovic M. and I., 2005)
Through another insight, Jaques argues about the reverse nature of decision making process as an
obligation for decision makers if they encounter only facts. In other words, in a realistic
condition, there will be no alternatives to be chosen. Instead, the environment itself dictates how
to be followed and decisions will be made spontaneously or naturally by themselves. “If you have
made a decision that was entirely based on factual information, you have not made a decision; it
was made for you by the facts.” (Dr. Elliott Jaques) (Stefanovic M. and I., 2005)

2-1-2: Decision Making Theories
In this section, according to the degree of relevance to the current research which provide more
features of concern or applicability, a number of decision making theories and models have been
reviewed.
As an introductory explanation, two extremes of decision making theories in the broad spectrum
of the organisational behavior are introduced which have been proposed for value-maximizing by
Mukerji (2011) namely; “classical decision theory” and “garbage can theory”. All other
decision making theories can be considered to exist somewhere between these two extremes. The
“classical decision theory” outlooks to the specialist as acting in a world of comprehensive
certainty. In this circumstance, one encounters an undoubtedly distinct problem, knows all
probable accomplishing substitutes and their consequences, and at that moment selects the choice
which proposes the best solution of the problem. Nonetheless, perceptive restrictions can frustrate
experts’ skills to comprehend the all-inclusive domain of complex problem dimensions,
consequently decisions are possibly to be made with inadequate information. In contrast, the
“garbage can theory” deals with organised syndromes as being categorized by: 1- awkward or
unreliable and imprecise preferences or objectives; 2- uncertain technology process based on trial-
and-error techniques and the deposit of lessons-learned from previously accidents; and 3-
unsolidified involvement where contributors differ in the extent of dedicated time and effort to
altered areas. Being on the opposite side of “classical decision theory” as a sensible decision
making, “garbage can theorists” have defined it as a process characterised by structural anarchy.
(Mukerji, 2011)
According to these two definitions, whereas the renewable energy projects are kind of
construction projects in which there are lots of uncertainties, no specified aspects, no apparent
factors, related consequences and so on, therefore the entity of decision making process
appropriate for this research lies very close to the extreme of the “garbage can theory”.

Although supporters of the decision making models often undertake that a specific model should
be used for most, if not all, decision making activities (Nutt, 1976), the researcher believes that
the decision making process can be well-thought-out as a multi-aspect phenomenon with several
angles of view or perspectives. Hence, more familiarity and knowledge about the prevailing
theories and models can be beneficial for empowering and authorizing the final results obtained
from the decision making group in any enterprise. Therefore, a descriptive list of the reviewed
theories in an ascending-relevant order to this research supplemented by brief explanations for
each has been followed:
(1) ‘Agency Theory’ (Meyer, 2013) (not applicable to this research)
(2) ‘Bandit Theory’ (Meyer, 2013) (not applicable to this research)
(3) ‘Open System Decision Making’ (Nutt, 1976) (not valid and applicable to the essence of this research)
(4) ‘Financial Appraisal Profile’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007) (less applicable to the principle of this research)
(5) ‘Expected Commercial Value Method’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007) (less applicable to the core of this research)
(6) ‘Benefit/Cost Ratio and Profitability Index’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007) (applicable in following steps of this
research i.e. in the connected future investigations)
(7) ‘Bubble Diagrams for Project Mapping’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007) (applicable in following steps of this
research i.e. in the associated future surveys while selection process among the portfolio is to be done)
(8) ‘Prospect Theory’ (Meyer, 2013) (low applicability to this research)
(9) ‘Normative Decision Theory’ (Nutt, 1976) (correlated to the subject of this research)
(10) ‘Behavioral Decision Theory’ (Nutt, 1976) (adhered to the subject of this research)
(11) ‘Decision Theory’ (Meyer, 2013) (almost applicable to this research)
(12) ‘Probability Theory’ (Meyer, 2013) (definitely applicable to this research)
(13) ‘Expected Utility Theory’ (Meyer, 2013) (undeniably and subjectively relevant to this research)
(14) ‘Group Decision-Making’ (Nutt, 1976; Meyer, 2013) (100% applicable to and meaningful for this research)
(15) ‘Bureaucratic Model’ (Nutt, 1976) (applicable and expressive to this research)
(16) ‘Equilibrium-Conflict Resolution’ (Nutt, 1976) (definitely matched to the essence of this research)
(17) ‘Analytical Hierarchy Process’ (Polatidis, Haralambopoulos, et al., 2006; Le and Nguyen, 2007; Daim, et al., 2010; Sue
Men, 2011; Kang, et al., 2011; Theodorou, et al., 2011) (the best appropriate and the most perfect model for configuring
the whole body of this research on)

2-1-2-1: Agency Theory
‘Agency theory designates the connection between a principal who represents a mission and an
agent who is responsible for accomplishment of the duty commanded by the mission. The
contract types between the principal and the agent are either outcome-based or behavior-based.
This theory can describe the approach in which a decision maker will react when confronted with
a decision, whereas may affect the organisation negatively but beneficial to the individual.’
(Meyer, 2013) In the current research, the problem which is seeked to be solved i.e. some accepted
model is to be proposed for improvement in managerial decision making in the environment in
which using the renewable energy resources are being encouraged, there is no prior made decision
so far that can affect the following decision making processes. As a result, this theory is not
applicable to this research.
2-1-2-2: Bandit Theory
‘Bandit theory refers to circumstances where a single decision maker selects a project from a
fixed set of alternatives. Projects are supposed to be liberated from other projects and the project
which is selected in a timeframe produces a certain advantage from a constant distribution. The
distribution and benefits of projects do not change over time, however the decision maker’s
beliefs about the projects and benefits do change.’ (Meyer, 2013; originally, Banks & Sundaram,
1992) In the natural gas processing companies, normally the decisions are going into the line for
analysing by the top managing team via the decision builders or suggesting teams and in fact, the
top managerial group finally reach to the point of decision making end. Moreover, most - even
nearly all - projects have something in common with other implementing or previously
implemented projects. In other words, it is almost never that a single or independent project be
found in the portfolio. Consequently, this theory cannot be applicable to this research.

2-1-2-3: Open System Decision Making
‘In this type of decision making model, decision tasks are too complicated for comprehending
because some linked vital variables cannot be understood or even defined but only forecast. The
complex nature of the variables is because of; 1- the definitional necessities are overwhelming; 2-
the essential information can be very costly and challenging to obtain; 3- the criteria are difficult
to be agreed for assessments; and 4- the open essence of most interesting decision tasks requires
attention to many parameters and their interactions where no behavioral or normative theory
exists to propose cause and effect relationships among them. Moreover, no objectives are fixed
and decisions are not expected to match with any agreed configuration, principal strategy, or set
of internally stable rationality.’ (Nutt, 1976) According to this description argued by Nutt, this
model is not valid and applicable to the essence of this research.
2-1-2-4: Financial Appraisal Profile
‘Lefley (2000) presented the refined Financial Appraisal Profile (FAP) model with an
illustration of a case study applying this model. This model consisting of three sub-models: the
net present value profile (NPVP), the project risk profile (PRP), and the strategic index (SI) is
capable of evaluating three main features of capital projects: finance, risk and strategic benefits.’
(Le and Nguyen, 2007)
According to the definition and description argued by Le and Nguyen, the financial appraisal
profile model is fundamentally used for detailed financial analysis. Although, financial factors are
among the final factor-list generated through the literature review done for this research, more in-
depth analysis is not to be executed in this area at this phase. Therefore, this model is less
applicable to the principle of the current research.

2-1-2-5: Expected Commercial Value Method
‘Cooper et al. (1997a, 2001a) noted that Expected Commercial Value Method (ECV) known as
a decision tree method is utilized to maximize the expected value of the portfolio, and added that
it conquers over the weakness of the net present value and reports for low-grade methods which
fail to consider risks, probability of technical and commercial success. The expected commercial
value methed profoundly combines these three concepts with the strategic approach in decision
making process.’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007)
Although the parameters pertinent to ECV are conceptually mentioned in the final factor-list
generated through the literature reviewed for this research, more comprehensive analysis is not
necessary for the existing study. Hence, this model seems less applicable to the core of this
research.
2-1-2-6: Benefit/Cost Ratio and Profitability Index
‘Frame (1994) discussed the analysis of weighting benefits of an option against its costs, which is
known as Benefit/Cost (B/C) Analysis. The ratio is calculated by dividing the estimates of
benefits by the estimates of costs as illustrated in the formula below:
B / C = (Estimated Sales * Estimated Profit Rate * Probability of Success) / Estimated Costs
The benefit/cost ratio or profitability index is a quantitative tool which is very useful for
ranking or prioritising projects. When the ratio is greater than 1.0, a project is profitable and
accepted; when it is less than 1.0, the project is unprofitable and rejected; and when it is equal to
0, the project is accepted or rejected depending on consideration of other strategic factors as
benefits offset costs.’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007)
Indeed, this index can be applied when the primary decision for implementing a project has been
made in advance. However, the problem is that as the current research seeks (a) reasonable
solution(s) or proposition(s) it is judged that the decision process is not still sufficiently

developed. Therefore, this model may be applied in later steps of this research i.e. in its connected
future investigations.
2-1-2-7: Bubble Diagrams for Project Mapping
‘According to Cooper et al. (2001), developed bubble diagrams for project mapping are mainly
based on the concepts of BCG matrix as portfolio management and GE/McKinsey matrix as
portfolio analysis, and used to present project portfolio for resource allocation. A typical diagram
has two dimensions and four segments to visually locate projects for creation of a balance
portfolio. One dimension of this diagram shows the interest in qualitative and quantitative
analysis of project earnings and benefits as future rewards whereas another one is associated with
consideration of uncertainty and risk. The bubble or circle represents projects and their size
denotes the resource amount allocated to each project. When adding or deleting the new projects,
resources strategically considered to share among projects make the size of the bubble or circle
change as the total sum of the areas of the circles must be a constant. Below is an example of the
risk-reward diagram of Company T.’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007)
Figure 2-0001: Risk-Reward Bubble Diagram of Company T. (Source: Le and Nguyen, 2007; Originally;
Cooper, et al., 2001a)

This project mapping tool can be applied in later steps of this research i.e. in the associated future
surveys while selection process among the portfolio is to be done.
2-1-2-8: Prospect Theory
‘Prospect theory explains the way in which we make decisions based on the principle that we
evaluate the magnitude of the move from our current position when making decisions. In
addition, we are also more likely to be risk averse when we stand to gain something and more risk
seeking when stand to lose something. Prospect theory argues that people do not behave in
standard economic ways.’ (Meyer, 2013) Actually, the perception of the risk affect on the decision
making in the ground of the current research is not so noticeable. Therefore, the applicability of
this theory to the subject is almost low.
2-1-2-9: Normative Decision Theory
‘Normative Decision Theory (NDT) can be characterized by its search for certainty in decision
making and its assumption that goals are known and information concerning the decision task can
be provided; in which there are a set of alternatives (Ai); a mutually exclusive and exhaustive set
of states of nature (Si); the probability (Pi) that each state will occur; a matrix of utilities for each
Si Ai intersection, which depicts the decision makers' utility if alternative Ai is implemented in an
environment described by Si; and a set of criteria X to judge the intrinsic value of Ai.’ (Nutt,
1976) This model can be used for the conditions in which far-reaching or thorough study is
required for more improved and reliable decision making process. In this regard, this theory
seems correlated to the subject of this research.

2-1-2-10: Behavioral Decision Theory
‘Simon pinpointed some of the limitations of “Normative Decision Theory” as a generic decision
model and proposed that a “decision space” (a sub-matrix of AiSi) in the normative decision
theory model should be defined to make NDT workable. Before the search for Aj's begins, one
defines “acceptable” states of nature and seeks alternatives that fall in these states. Since
acceptable, not optimal, alternatives are sought, a “satisficing” decision rule is used. If these
“acceptable” alternatives are easy to find, Simon postulates that the decision maker's aspiration
level rises; if not, aspiration level falls, and the decision maker may redefine what is “acceptable”.
Thus, recognizing “behavioral” principles in decision making makes the decision task somewhat
more manageable.’ (Nutt, 1976) Whereas the normative decision theory seems interconnected to
the current study, therefore, this model as a corresponding theory can be adhered to the subject of
this research in the area of decision making process.
2-1-2-11: Decision Theory
‘It deals with the way in which decisions are made typically under uncertainty. The decision-
making process has multiple processes, which could be visited multiple times, depending on the
type of decision and the factors influencing the decision maker.’ (Meyer, 2013; Originally;
Mintzberg, Raisinghani, & Théorêt, 1976; Simon, 1960 and Gilboa, 2009) This theory is almost
applicable to the current research, because there exist some uncertainties and ambiguities for
Prioritisation and approval of renewable energy projects in the case studied situation.
2-1-2-12: Probability Theory
‘It is essential to our understanding of the choices available to decision makers and explaining
their behavior when given certain consequences and probabilities. The actual behavior of a
decision maker can be compared to the decision options and the ideal economic behavior. People

indirectly consider probabilities in every decision they make, nonetheless they do not compute
precisely the probabilities. Their perceptions of probability are significantly influenced by factors
such as stress, prior experiences, optimism, and so on.’ (Meyer, 2013)
This theory is definitely applicable to the current research. Actually, there are few implemented
renewable projects in Iranian natural gas refineries. Therefore, it is so natural that the decision
makers potentially responsible and authorized for this matter have so many doubts and feel so
many probabilities in front of themselves while decision making process.
2-1-2-13: Expected Utility Theory
‘Expected Utility Theory (EUT) combines characteristics of probability theory, decision theory,
and economic benefit. EUT describes the benchmark performance that one would expect a
decision maker to reveal, in other words; taking decisions that give the best gain. EUT deals with
standard economic behavior based on the best calculated outcome or utility.’ (Meyer, 2013)
Certainly, economic aspect is generally a fundamental and important factor in each decision
making process. Therefore, this theory is undeniably and subjectively relevant to the current
research.
2-1-2-14: Group Decision Making
‘Group decision making investigates how groups of people deal with decisions that involve
input from all the members in the group.’ (Meyer, 2013) ‘Decision making through group
processes is frequently proposed by “human relations” advocates as a decision mechanism.’
(Nutt, 1976)
As per mentioned previously, the decisions in the current studying case(s) have been made by the
top managing group. Therefore, this theory is 100% applicable to and meaningful for this
research.

2-1-2-15: Bureaucratic Model
‘In the bureaucratic model, decision making is conducted by people with both power and
competence who interpret master plans. These master plans provide rules and procedures
governing contingencies, performance expectations and individual behavior for important
decision tasks. This model can be used when organisations have stable products or services and
when the costs of development of master plans can be amortized. Moreover, organisations and
components of organisations profitably use the bureaucratic model when the decision
environment is largely routine or predictable.’ (Nutt, 1976)
Considering the existing environment in the cases studied in this research, this theory is
applicable to and expressive for this research.
2-1-2-16: Equilibrium-Conflict Resolution Theory
‘In equilibrium-conflict resolution theory, the individual decision maker feels “conflict” when a
choice among alternatives is perceived to be “uncertain”, “unacceptable”, or “uncomparable”.
Few resources and high aspirations will intensify individual conflict. Conflict in groups can be
further emphasized by goal differences, schedule and resource dependencies, mismatches of
rewards and goals, few information sources with low communication among group members, and
imposing group decision-making requirements on a heretofore latent group. Time pressure acts on
both individuals and groups in organisations by limiting their duration of attention, which can
cause the adoption of narrow-minded alternatives.’ (Nutt, 1976)
According to the main problem which this research tries to propose some suggestions for its
solution, promotion or upward alertness i.e. Prioritisation and approval of the renewable energy
projects in Iran, the existence of conflicts and uncertainties are plausible. Therefore, this theory is
definitely matched to the essence of this research.

2-1-2-17: Analytical Hierarchy Process
‘Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) model developed by Saaty (1980) is used to support
decision makers to rationally select the best alternative based on the qualitative and quantitative
approach; subjective and pair-wise comparisons. The objective, evaluation criteria and sub-
criteria are set in a hierarchical structure for order ranking, alternatives or options comparison in
pairs, and selection of the best alternative.’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007) ‘It allows decision making
stemmed from both rational and intuitive method to select the best option from a number of
alternatives evaluated with respect to several criteria. AHP is selected widely for multi-criteria
decision making tool. As shown in the following figure, the simplest form used to structure a
decision problem is a hierarchy of three levels; the goal of the problem at the topmost level,
criteria at the second level and alternatives at the lowest level.’ (Sue Men, 2011)
Figure 2-0002: A Three Level Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) (Source: Sue Men, 2011)
In the following figure, Sue Men (2011) introduces a typical flow chart for analytical hierarchy
process (AHP):

Figure 2-0003: Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Flow Chart (Source: Sue Men, 2011)
According to the above descriptions about the analytical hierarchy process, the researcher selected
this method as the most appropriate and compatible scheme for configuring relevant parts of this
research. On the ground of AHP, the analysing process of the final aspects/factors derived from
literature review was initiated. Subsequently, a questionnaire founded on ranking scale was
developed as secondary information to be followed and supported by interviews through a more
in-depth qualitative survey in the second case study.

2-1-3: Project, Programme and Portfolio
2-1-3-1: Project
‘Project is defined as a time and cost constrained operation to realize a set of defined deliverables
up to quality standards and requirements; i.e. a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique
product, service, or result.’ (Caupin, et al., 2006, Le and Nguyen, 2007; originally; PMI, 2006)
2-1-3-2: Programme
‘A programme consists of a set of related projects and required organisational changes to reach a
strategic goal and to achieve the defined business benefits.’ (Caupin, et al., 2006)
2-1-3-3: Portfolio
‘A portfolio is a set of projects and /or programmes, which are not necessarily related, brought
together for the sake of control, coordination and optimization of the portfolio in its totality. An
organisation can have several portfolios in existence at the same time.’ (Caupin, et al., 2006) PMI
(2006) defines “portfolio” as a collection of projects or programmes - whether interdependent or
not - and other work that are grouped together to facilitate the effective management of that work
to meet strategic business objectives.’ (Le and Nguyen, 2007)
Table 2-0001: Project, Programme and Portfolio – Main Issues and Differences (Source: Caupin, et al.,
2006)

2-1-3-4: Portfolio Management
‘Portfolio management is a permanent function in the line management organisation. The actual
projects and/or programmes in the portfolio will exist for a limited time, while the portfolio itself
remains.’ (Caupin, et al., 2006)
2-1-3-5: Project, Programme, and Portfolio Management Office
‘A project management office - or programme management or portfolio management office
- is part of a permanent organisation. Its roles are typically to provide support, to set standards and
guidelines for the managers of the different projects and programmes, to collect project
management data from the projects, to consolidate these and to report to some governing body. It
has to ensure that the projects are aligned to the organisation’s strategy and vision.’ (Caupin, et
al., 2006)
2-1-4: The Organisational View of Projects
‘Each organisation consists of both internal (e.g. top management structures and functional
departments) and external contexts (e.g. customers, regulators, partners, science, technology,
economy, legislation, society and the natural environment); in which there are always so many
interactions and interfaces between them. Nowadays, managing of the projects in a growing
complex environment and the organisation’s contexts is very challenging. The following figure
demonstrates a pattern of a project-oriented organisation.’ (International Project Management
Association [IPMA], 2013)

Figure 2-0004: A Project-Oriented Organisation in its Context (Source: International Project Management
Association [IPMA], 2013)
Mission, vision and strategy are three commonly and broadly used expressions in many
organisations. According to international project management association (IPMA, 2013),
“mission” expresses the ultimate purpose of an organisation, “vision” illuminates the
organisation’s future achievement, and “strategy” deals with the realization of the vision.
‘Projects are implemented in organisations to deliver desired yields with the purpose of meeting
the specifications and being on time and within planned budget. On the other hand, the
organisation’s top management is supposed to check whether the organisation’s mission, vision
and strategy are met in a sustainable way. In other words, both effectiveness i.e. “doing the right
projects” and efficiency i.e. “doing the projects right” are to be considered. As shown in the
following figure, the projects in an organisation could be managed either separately or as part(s)
of a programme. In addition, projects and programmes could be organised in portfolios and sub-
portfolios.’ (International Project Management Association [IPMA], 2013)

Figure 2-0005: Projects, Programmes and Portfolios in an Organisation (Source: International Project
Management Association [IPMA], 2013)
According to Kula (2013) as shown in the following figure, the project management has two
equivalent phases, namely; sociocultural and technical phases. Each classification contains several
conceptions. The organisations’ portfolios, sub-portfolios, programmes and projects i.e. missions
actually interact or deal with these two divisions. Consequently, the more completed the factors
grounded on each two i.e. strategy, the more successful the movements towards perfect decision
making process and desired results i.e. vision.
Figure 2-0006: The Technical and Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Project Management (Source: Kula,
2013)

Cable, et al. (2004) state that project portfolio management can be assumed of as having three
leading purposes: 1- portfolio value maximization, 2- balance within the portfolio, and 3- strategic
alignment. Woods (2012) holds that organisation’s resources are the backbone for successfully
implementating of projects and correspondingly, it is too essential that each team member’s
performance to be optimized. ‘Through another insight, in order to ascertain the feasibility of a
project, modern project management necessitates predicting techniques for cost, duration, and
performance of a project, not only under normal conditions, but also under external happenings
that might sharply modify the status quo. There are several potential risk sources in projects: acts
of nature, physical risks, financial and economical risks, political and environmental risks, design
risks, and job-site-related risks.’ (Palomo, et al., 2007). ‘Therefore, risk as an intrinsic feature of
every project is vital to be assessed and managed for successful project implementation. Some
risk assessment tools have been developed to facilitate identification of potential problems.’ (Huff
and Prybutok, 2008) ‘There are many different techniques in use today for the identification and
evaluation of risks. Given the stakes involved in today’s projects, such intuitive measures, based
solely on experience, are no longer adequate.’ (Gidel, et al., 2005)
Indeed, this research is on the platform where the required decisions are to be made whether the
renewable energy projects are to be implemented or not. Hence, it seems too premature to take the
risk assessment at this level for investigation. Although, due to the importance and relevance of
this subject with the projects, a thorough reviewed literature has been presented in this part of the
thesis.
2-1-5: Failure Causes in Decision Making and Projects
An astonishing outcome based on Nutt’s two decade studies on 356 decisions made in medium to
large American and Canadian organisations reveals that, “Surprising but true: Half the

decisions in organisations fail !” The main reasons for these failures are actually the reflections
from the managerial methods. ‘According to Nutt’s investigation, the failures responsibilities goes
back to managers who enforce answers from the personnel, bound the exploration for
substitutions, and command to accomplish their policies. On the contrary, managers who clearly
define the necessity for action at the beginning, establish objectives, perform a limitless search for
solutions, and select appropriate individuals to take part are supposed to be more successful.’
(Nutt, 1999).
Nutt’s investigation (1999) suggests three failure reasons in decisions:
1. Non-existing really contribution of the involved personnel in the organisation despite of
their awareness and ability for the tasks - statistically; contribution has been occurred in
twenty percent of the made decisions - i.e. “commonly known, but uncommonly
practiced”.
2. Taking “short cuts” under time pressure and acting based on sermons such as “Why invent
the wheel?” Nevertheless, regardless of these short-cuts, unpredictable troubles and delays
will be regularly created.
3. Existing “subtleties” on behalf of managers which cause the subordinates to take
defensive action instead of to try looking for answers. In other words, “energy is directed
away from finding answers to protecting their backs and their interests, as well.”
Nutt (1999) supplements six suggestions for improvement of managers’ chances of making
successful decisions as “tips on how to manage the decision-making effort” as follow:
1. Manage decision-making processes personally;
2. Search for understanding;
3. Establish the direction with an intervention and an objective;
4. Stress idea creation and implementation;

5. Identify more than one option;
6. Deal with barriers to action
Mukerji (2011) in his PhD thesis researched about how to improve decision making processes in
construction planning to reduce project failures. He states that “effective decision making
processes to support complex planning are accepted as key strategies for project success.” He lists
six common causes of project failures as follow: (Mukerji, 2011; Originally; PMBOK, 2004)
1. Inadequate planning of project human and other resources resulting in e.g. assigning of
under skilled managers and inappropriate staff, schedules forcing unachievable delivery
dates;
2. Lack of decision-making and coordination of resources and activities;
3. Lack of proactive decision-making for control over progress resulting in projects not
properly revealing exact status until too late;
4. Lack of coordination with interested parties including clients leading to quality problems;
5. Poor planning of project specifications, inadequate innovative ideas, mismatch of
expectations between the PM, project team managers, subcontractors, suppliers, and
client(s);
6. Poor communication of planning processes, and decisions
According to Caupin, et al. (2006), success is the eventual purpose of a project or programme
manager. They add the IPMA’s definitions of project success as “the appreciation by various
interested parties of project outcomes” which is more challenging than “to produce the project
deliverables within time and budget”.

2-2: Energy
2-2-1: General Subjects and their Brief Explanations
The noticeable terms or expressions which are commonly encountered in the pertinent
explanatory literature have been listed to harvest a general terminology section for the current
thesis as follow:
(1) Energy, Units and Conversion Factors
(2) Renewable Energy
(3) Solar Energy
(4) Wind Energy
(5) Geothermal Energy
(6) Biomass Energy
(7) Bio-Fuels
(8) Hydro-Power
(9) Wave Power, Tidal Power and Ocean Currents
(10) Nuclear Energy
(11) Natural Gas (NG)
(12) Coal
(13) Geographic Information System (GIS)
(14) Primary and Secondary Energy Commodities
(15) Waste
(16) Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
(17) Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
(18) Global Climate Change
(19) Energy Portfolio
(20) Energy Technologies
(21) Conventional Power
(22) Green Technology

(23) Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
(24) Distributed Generation
(25) Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPSs)
(26) Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)
(27) IEA (The International Energy Agency) and OECD (The Organisation for Economic Co-
operation and Development)
(28) IRENA (The International Renewable Energy Agency)
2-2-1-1: Energy, Units and Conversion Factors
‘The term “energy” is very familiar, nevertheless amazingly few people fully recognize its true
nature and in everyday speaking, this word is used inaccurately. It is often used incorrectly while
expressing inter-changeably with the words e.g. work, power, and fuel. Perhaps, physicists or
engineers state the best explanation about the “energy” by presenting a comprehensible
illustration. It is recognizable that to raise a weight with a mass of one kilogram through a
distance of one meter above the surface on which it was originally resting, someone or some
machine must have performed some “work”. This work represents the amount of energy which
is inserted into the object. Indeed, this example illustrates the foundation for the International
System (SI) unit of energy; “joule”, which is defined as; the work done when a force of one
newton (1N) acts on an object so that it moves one meter (1m) in the direction of the force. If
the “time” parameter for performing this work is to be considered, we come across to another
term; called “power”. Obviously, there is a reverse proportion between the time and the power.
More power leads to less time duration and vise versa. Consequently, power is the rate at which
work is performed, or on the other hand, the rate of producing or consuming energy. The SI unit
of power is watt (W). Therefore, a power of one watt is required for consuming one joule of
energy in one second.’ (Beggs, 2002)
‘Because of the small size of “joule” as the unit while expressing the demand or consumed
quantity of energy in reports and analyses, other energy units have become widely held to be

used. For example, “ton of coal equivalent” was used traditionally until the time of extensive
usage of petroleum as the dominant energy resource which substituted by the “ton of oil
equivalent (toe)” defined as 41.868 gigajoules.’ (Garnier, et al., 2005)
Commonly used units of energy:
(Reference: Beggs, C. (2002). Energy: Management, Supply and Conservation: 289)
1- Kilowatt-hour (kWh) is commonly used in the electricity supply industry and, to a lesser
extent, in the gas supply industry. It refers to the amount of energy consumed in one hour
by the operation of an appliance having a power rating of one kW. Therefore:
1 kWh = 3.6 * 106 joule
2- British thermal unit (Btu) is the old imperial unit of energy. It is still very much in use
and is particularly popular in the USA.
1 Btu = 1.0551 * 103 joule
3- Therme is a unit that originated in the gas supply industry. It is equivalent to 100,000 Btu.
1 therme = 1.0551 * 108 joule
4- Ton of oil equivalent (toe) is a unit of energy used in the oil industry.
1 toe = 4.1868 * 1010 joule
5- Barrel is another unit of energy used in the oil industry. There are 7.5 barrels in 1 toe.
1 barrel = 6 * 109 joule
6- Calorie is the most commonly used unit of energy in the food industry. It is in fact the
amount of heat required to raise 1 gram of water through 1 °C.
1 calorie = 4.1868 *103 joule

The conversion factors of some commonly used energy units in relevant technical and
professional literature have been summarized in the following table:
Table 2-0002: Energy Units Conversion Factors (Source: IEA, 2014)
2-2-1-2: Renewable Energy
‘Renewable energy is derived from natural processes that are replaced continually and known as
naturally occurring non-depletable sources of energy. There are various types of renewable
energy, deriving directly or indirectly from the sun, or from heat inside the planet earth. They are
the energy that are generated from solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, tidal, wave and ocean
resources, solid biomass, bio-gas and liquid bio-fuels in order to produce electricity, gaseous and
liquid fuels, heat or a combination of these energy types.’ (Shabangu, 2002; IEA, 2005; Garnier,
et al., 2005; and Nordman, 2010) Nonetheless, some references exclude municipal solid waste
and landfill gas. (Bollinger, 2014) In contrary, some definitions include municipal solid waste as a
renewable resource. (Guide to Purchasing Green Power, 2010)
2-2-1-3: Solar Energy
‘Solar energy is used to produce directly electricity, to heat/boil water, and to heat/cool and light
buildings. Photovoltaic mechanisms receive the energy of sunlight and convert it into the
electricity and may sometimes be stored in special batteries. Alternatively, sunlight can be

concentrated by means of mirrors on water drums to produce the steam required for moving a
steam turbine to generate electricity.’ (Shabangu, 2002; Daim, et al., 2010, Originally;
Department of Energy, 2007e)
Figure 2-0007: Solar PV Atlas, Solar power in Harmony with Nature (Source: Archambault, 2013)
2-2-1-4: Wind Energy
‘Naturally occurring wind has the energy which may be used directly either in windmills to grind
grain or pump water; or in wind turbines to generate electricity to be connected to national grid or
to charge batteries. Great modern wind turbines work together in areas called “wind farms” to
produce electricity and small turbines are used to meet localised energy needs.’ (Shabangu, 2002)
‘Wind is actually one of the cheapest types of renewable energies, however the limitation remains
for appropriate location where existence of minimum required wind be reliable and probable.’
(Daim, et al., 2010, Originally; Department of Energy, 2008)

As shown in the following figure, the wind speed more than 25 m/s is not applicable to produce
power. Therefore, the wind speed is one important constraint for the current and available
technology.
Figure 2-0008: A Wind Farm Shutting Down and then Restarting due to a Period of High Wind Speed
(Original Source: Kay, et al., 2006; then, Source: Outhred, et al., 2007)
2-2-1-5: Geothermal Energy
‘Geothermal energy is obtained from the heat stored in hot water sources or rock in the Earth’s
crust. This type of renewable energy has minimum negative environmental impact, although its
technology is still expensive. This type of energy is used either to produce electricity directly
from natural geysers/hot water or to heat fluids through pumping towards heat exchangers e.g. to
boil water in order to produce steam for power generation.’ (Shabangu, 2002; Daim, et al., 2010,
Originally; Department of Energy, 2007b)

2-2-1-6: Biomass Energy
‘The energy stored in all organic material such as plants, trees and crops originating form the
sun’s energy through photosynthesis is called bioenergy or biomass energy. This energy is then
converted into applicable types of energy e.g. heat, electricity and liquid fuels. Biomass energy is
derived from plants, residues from agriculture or forestry, organic components in municipal solid
wastes (MSW), industrial wastes (IW), and may finally be in the form of landfill gas (biogas), as
well. Actually, this type of energy – essentially extracted from wood - is the first energy source
joined with human-being life through all history. However, if using trees as the energy source
continues unsustainably; i.e. no replanting or reforesting, this section of biomass energy cannot be
considered as renewable.’ (Herzog, et al., 2000; Shabangu, 2002)
2-2-1-7: Bio-Fuels
‘The liquid form converted from biomass is known as bio-fuel. There are two most common
types of bio-fuels called ethanol - produced from rich carbohydrate biomass such as maize; - and
biodiesel - made from vegetable oils, animal fats and algae-. Transportation is one of important
consumers of bio-fuels.’ (Shabangu, 2002)
2-2-1-8: Hydro-Power
‘The power of water movement under gravitational force is called “hydro-power” which is the
most popular form of renewable energy; having almost 47% of the total share whereas 29%; for
wind, 23%; for biomass and the remaining 1%; for the rest. For example, it used to drive water-
turbines in order to produce electricity. In this case, water is passed through channels or generally
collected behind dams so that the height is raised. The generated potential energy is applied for
turning special turbines through their blades. The cost of electricity generated from this

technology is relatively cheap, but depending upon the location with important restriction in
drought conditions. Biological impacts, recreational requirements of water supply, river flow and
geo-political concerns if the water supply being near to international borders are amongs
additional obligations.’ (Shabangu, 2002; Daim, et al., 2010, Originally; Department of Energy,
2007c; Al baek and Liebreich, 2012)
2-2-1-9: Wave Power, Tidal Power and Ocean Currents
‘Wave power, tidal power and ocean currents can be applied to turn turbines in order to create
electrical energy. These days, technologies using these power sources are being commercialized.’
(Shabangu, 2002)
2-2-1-10: Nuclear Energy
‘Any generated energy from a controlled atomic reaction is defined as nuclear energy. The
exothermic fission reaction is occurred inside the nuclear reactor i.e. special rods which are
submerged into a liquefied media such as water in order to absorb the produced heat. The
regularly used fissile-material is uranium of which the atoms are splitted and consequently, a
large quantity of heat is created. The heat boils the water, thereafter; steam is produced to be
transferred to steam turbines for power generation and so on. (Daim, et al., 2010, Originally;
Department of Energy, 2009)
2-2-1-11: Natural Gas (NG)
Nowadays, natural gas as an important energy supply is extracted from underground or offshore
resources. Tobin (2006) explains the fundamental mission of the natural gas industry so as to take
the well-head quality natural gas, separate it into its constituent parts i.e. its components, and

deliver pipeline quality natural gas mainly methane; CH4, into the nation's network or grid. The
following figure shows a generalized natural gas processing block flow diagram:
Figure 2-0009: Generalized Natural Gas Processing Block Flow Diagram
2-2-1-12: Coal
‘Burning coal harvested from mines is used in load-base or thermal generation plants in order to
produce steam required for power generation. Even though coal is considered to be one of the
least expensive fuels, its negative impact on environment creates filtering complications agaist air
emissions.’ (Daim, et al., 2010, Originally; Department of Energy, 2007a)

2-2-1-13: Geographic Information System (GIS)
‘Geographic information system (GIS) is an electronic geographical and spacial data-base,
digital model or software system which is applied to plan and deploy renewable energy
technologies, analyse, visualize, and synthesize enormous amounts of information e.g. biomass
production potentials, wind conditions, population and bird migration routes to help understand
real world interactions and support the relevant decision making processes.’ (Nordman, 2010;
Bio-Energy Knowledge Discovery Framework, 2011)
2-2-1-14: Primary and Secondary Energy Commodities
‘According to one kind of energy supplies or commodities categorizing, they are divided into two
parts; namely as “primary” and “secondary”. Primary commodities are either extracted or
captured directly from natural resources such as crude oil, hard coal, and natural gas. Whereas
secondary commodities are those either produced from primary commodities or transformed
from secondary energy, again. Based on this definition, electricity generated by burning fuel oil is
categorized as “secondary”. Other examples include petroleum products (secondary) from crude
oil (primary), coke-oven coke (secondary) from coking coal (primary), charcoal (secondary) from
fuel wood (primary), etc.’ (IEA, 2005 and Garnier, et al., 2005)

Figure 2-0010: Terminology for Energy Commodities (Sources: IEA, 2005 and Garnier, et al., 2005)
2-2-1-15: Waste
‘Waste is known as a kind of fuel involving many constituents coming from combustible
industrial, institutional, hospital and household wastes such as rubber, plastics, waste fossil oils
and so on. It is either solid or liquid in form, renewable or non-renewable, biodegradable or non-
biodegradable.’ (IEA, 2005; Garnier, et al., 2005)
2-2-1-16: Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
‘Carbon dioxide is one of the combustion products generated from fossil fuels having carbon as
the key element in their chemical compositions which has been deposited underground within
millions of years (CO2). It is the main gas contributing to the greenhouse effect. Although, its
production and absorbtion were naturally used to be in a balance; i.e. in an equilibrium status on
the Earth, recently human activities result in serious disturbance in the world. Global warming is
the greatest hurdle in this regard.’ (Guide to Purchasing Green Power, 2010)

2-2-1-17: Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
‘Greenhouse gases - as the name itself states – are some existing gases in the Earth’s
environment which cause the greenhouse effect through preventing the heat release or escape
back into space and in fact, they act as heat-traps. They include water vapor, carbon dioxide,
methane, nitrous oxide, halogenated fluorocarbons, ozone, perfluorinate carbons, and
hydrofluorocarbons.’ (Guide to Purchasing Green Power, 2010)
2-2-1-18: Global Climate Change
‘Global climate change is defined as the long-term alteration in the Earth’s climate, compared to
what would be expected naturally, due to human activities. Naturally and historically, it has been
used to occur due to natural causes within thousands of years. Unfortunately, human life-style and
activities in recent decades are causing serious and immediate challenges in this concern. Global
warming could result in a rise in sea levels, changes in patterns of precipitation, more variable
weather, and many other consequences. These changes threaten our health, agriculture, water
resources, forests, wildlife, and coastal areas.’ (Guide to Purchasing Green Power, 2010)
2-2-1-19: Energy Portfolio
‘An energy portfolio is simply the breakdown of energy by source for a given country or region.
The portfolio may contain several energy technologies including renewable and non-renewable.’
(Daim, et al., 2010)

2-2-1-20: Energy Technologies
‘Energy technologies are the relevant mechanisms used for applying the different types of energy
in an energy portfolio. Those can include conventional coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewables
such as geothermal, hydro, solar, wind energy and so on.’ (Daim, et al., 2010)
2-2-1-21: Conventional Power
‘Conventional power is the power produced from non-renewable fuels such as coal, oil, natural
gas, and nuclear fuels. These fuels are a finite resource that cannot be replenished once they have
been extracted and used.’ (Guide to Purchasing Green Power, 2010)
2-2-1-22: Green Technology
‘Green technologies are science-based mechanisms that help to keep the natural environment and
resources against damages and troubles by minimizing waste and toxicity, conserving energy and
reducing pollution and carbon emission. For example, green power is the electricity that is
generated from renewable energy sources and is a term that implies a lesser environmental impact
than from conventional or traditional electricity generation methods.’ (Guide to Purchasing Green
Power, 2010; Schoemaker and Day, 2011)
2-2-1-23: Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
‘Combined heat and power generation system is an electricity producing technology, also
known as cogeneration, that recovers waste heat from the electric generation process to produce
simultaneously other forms of useful energy, such as usable heat or steam. On average, two-thirds
of the input energy used to make electricity is lost as waste heat. In contrast, combined heat and

power (CHP) systems are capable of converting more than 70 percent of the fuel into usable
energy.’ (Guide to Purchasing Green Power, 2010)
2-2-1-24: Distributed Generation
‘Distributed generation is known as small, modular, decentralized, grid-connected, or off-grid
energy systems located in or near the place where energy is used.’ (Guide to Purchasing Green
Power, 2010)
2-2-1-25: Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS)
‘Renewable portfolio standard (RPS) - called “renewable electricity standard”; as well - is a
governing instruction which mandates the electricity producers an obligating minimum amount of
their resource portfolio that must come from renewable energy resources. (Guide to Purchasing
Green Power, 2010) For example, Michigan in U.S.A., passed an RPS in 2008 requiring that 10%
of the state's energy come from renewable sources by 2015.’ (Nordman, 2010)
2-2-1-26: Renewable Energy Certificate (REC)
‘Renewable energy certificate (REC) - or “tradable renewable certificates” - is a certificate that
represents the generation of one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity from an appropriate source
of renewable energy which can be used to meet voluntary renewable energy targets as well as to
meet compliance requirements for renewable energy policies. RECs are also known as “green
tags”, “green certificates”, and “renewable energy credits”.’ (Paper: Green Power and Renewable
Energy Certificates, 2008 and Guide to Purchasing Green Power, 2010)

2-2-1-27: IEA (The International Energy Agency) and OECD (The Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development)
‘International Energy Agency (IEA) is an independent body which was established in
November 1974 within the framework of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development (OECD) to implement an international energy programme. OECD is a unique
forum where the governments of thirty democracies work together to address the economic, social
and environmental challenges of globalization.’ (IEA, 2005)
2-2-1-28: IRENA (The International Renewable Energy Agency)
‘International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is an inter-governmental organisation
dedicated to renewable energy. In accordance with its statute, IRENA's objective is to promote
the widespread and increased adoption and the sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy.
As of November 2012, the membership of IRENA comprised 158 states and the European Union
(EU), out of which 102 states and the EU have approved the statute.’ (IRENA, 2012)
2-2-2: Global Energy Demand, Consumption and Some Economic Statistics toward More
Renewables
‘The global energy demand has been grown step by step for the past decades. The majority of
nations mostly depend on non-renewable energy sources to meet their energy needs and demands
which cause the gradual depletion of the fossil resources. Therefore, potential renewable energy
sources are to be identified and evaluated concerning energy generation amount and their
sustainability. Diversifying of energy sources is important for setting a right balance between the
use of sustainable renewable and non renewable energy sources.’ (Alzeyoudi, 2011)

‘United nations industrial development organisation (UNIDO, 2010) states that around one third
of total energy use worldwide is accounted for manufacturing industry and approximately 75% of
industrial energy use has been associated to the production of energy-intensive commodities such
as ferrous and non-ferrous metals, chemicals and petrochemicals, non-metallic mineral materials,
pulp and paper. Moreover, industrial production is projected to increase by a factor of four
between 2010 and 2050. In the absence of a strong contribution from energy efficiency
improvements, renewable energy and CO2 capture and storage (CCS) will need to make a
significant impact if industry is substantially to reduce its consequent greenhouse-gas (GHG)
emissions. Overall, an increase in renewable energy in industry has the potential to contribute
about 10% of all expected GHG emissions reductions in 2050.’ (UNIDO, 2010)
International energy agency (IEA, 2014) states the following three analytical scenarios i.e.
“Energy Technology Perspectives 2014 (ETP 2014)” involving both policy and technology over
the next 35 years:
(1) 6o
C Scenario (6DS); where the world is now heading with potentially devastating results
(2) 4o
C Scenario (4DS); reflects stated intentions by countries to cut emissions and boost
energy efficiency
(3) 2o
C Scenario (2DS); offers a vision of a sustainable energy system of reduced
greenhouse gas and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions
‘Modern renewable energy is being used increasingly in four distinct markets: power generation,
heating and cooling, transport fuels, and rural/off-grid energy services.’ (Global Status Report;
Renewables; Paris, 2014)

Figure 2-0011: Estimated Renewable Energy Share of Global Final Energy Consumption, 2012 (Source:
Global Status Report; Renewables; Paris, 2014)
‘Renewables have been aided by continuing advances in technologies, falling prices, and
innovations in financing, driven largely by policy support. These developments are making
renewable energy more economical than new fossil and nuclear installations under many
circumstances, and thus more affordable for a broader range of consumers in developed and
developing countries. In addition, there is increasing aware-ness of renewable energy
technologies and resources, and their potential to help meet rapidly rising energy demand, while
also creating jobs, accelerating economic development, reducing local air pollution, improving
public health, and reducing carbon emissions.’ (Global Status Report; Renewables; Paris, 2014)
According to British Petroleum Statistical Review of World Energy, full report (2014), there has
been a seven fold increase of renewables consumption in the world within the past two decades
from 1993 to 2013. The amount of global energy consumption was about 40 million tonnes oil
equivalent in 2003 and nearly 280 in 2013. This trend can be perceived as another proof for the
global desire and prioritisation of implementing the renewable energy projects. However,
additionally as reported by BP (2014), the ranking of world primary energy consumption with
respect to the six main energy resources within 1988 to 2013 in a descending usage order has been: 1-
oil, 2- coal, 3- natural gas, 4- hydroelectricity, 5- nuclear energy, and 6- Renewables. Therefore,

there seems to be noticeable room for changing the conceptual strategic thinking of the decision
makers into renewable resources. (BP Statistical Review of World Energy, full report, 2014)
IEA (2014) additionally conveyed the statistics about global electricity demand and share of
electricity in the overall energy mix until 2050. ‘Since the 1970s, electricity’s overall share of
total energy demand has risen from 9% to over 17%. Across all scenarios globally, it climbs to
25%, while electricity demand grows by 80% in the 2DS and 130% in the 6DS by 2050. But
regional growth rates in actual demand are vastly different: OECD countries remain almost flat
with an average 16% demand growth; in non-OECD regions, growth skyrockets as high as
300%.’ (IEA, 2014)
Figure 2-0012: Electricity Demand and Share of Electricity (Source: IEA, 2014)
As shown in the following figure, the renewable share of power generation in the Middle East
region seems to be very low within the past two decades from 1993 to 2013. It has the lowest
ranking in the world. The ranking from the highest to the lowest is: 1- Europe and Eurasia, 2-
South and Central America, 3- North America, 4- World, 5- Asia Pacific, 6- Africa, and 7-
Middle East. Consequently, this matter can be considered more deeply by top decision makers in
this region.

Figure 2-0013: World Renewables Share of Power Generation by Region (Source: BP Statistical Review
of World Energy, full report, 2014)
As shown in the following figure, the renewable energy cost trends used to fall from 1980 and is
predicted that the reduction being continued until 2020 and maybe thereafter. Therefore, it is
supposed that the investors’ tendency for the renewable energy resources to be increased
respectively.
Figure 2-0014: Renewable Energy Cost Trends (Source: U.S.A. Solar Energy International, 2008)

As a remarkable subject, there seems a relationship between the oil price and the amount of global
investment in clean energy. In other words, there is an approximate correlation or a connected
behavior between these two parameters. It can be comprehended from the following figure:
Figure 2-0015: Clean Energy Investments Depending on Oil Prices (Source: El-Husseini, et al., 2009)
The following figure shows the cumulative global energy supply investment by type in the “New
Policies Scenario” in the period of 2014 to 2035. As shown, the renewables by the investment
amount of $5,857 billion US are predicted to have an outstanding share until 2035. (Source: IEA,
2014)

Figure 2-0016: Cumulative Global Energy Supply Investment by Type in the New Policies Scenario,
2014-2035 (Source: IEA, 2014)
2-2-3: Energy Condition and Some Statistics in Iran
‘Iran is nearly situated in the southwestern part of Asia and the far eastern part of the Middle East
and is surrounded by Iraq and Turkey to the west, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russian Federation and
Turkmenistan to the north, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east. The Caspian Sea is in the north
with a 740 km coastline and in the south with a long coastline of 2,440 kilometers, the Persian
Gulf and the sea of Oman, connects the country to the Indian Ocean and international waterways.
Iran has a total territorial area of 1,648,195 square kilometers’ (Atabi, 2004 and Sabetghadam,
2006) ‘and population of 79,476,308 people in the year 2015. The world population is
7,324,782,225. Therefore, Iran has 1.085% share of the whole earth’s population.’
(www.worldometers.info, 2015)
‘In addition to international sources such as IEA and the World Bank, Iran have reviewed and
utilized from a vast spectrum of statistics on energy. There are many national organisations active
in this field, namely:’ (Sabetghadam, 2006)
• Management and Planning Organisation: “Government Budget Documents”;

• Ministry of Energy: “Annual Energy Balances”;
• Central Bank of Iran: “National Accounts”;
• Statistical Centre of Iran: “Population Census” and “Family Budget Surveys”;
• Environment Preservation Organisation: “Pollution Data”
‘Ministry of Energy (MOE) is responsible for policy-making and management of generation,
transmission and distribution of electricity. TAVANIR (Generation, Transmission and
Distribution of Electricity Company) and its regional subsidiary companies: the Regional
Electricity Generating Companies and Regional Electricity Distributing Companies are
responsible for generation, transmission and distribution. Ministry of Petroleum (MOP) is
responsible for both policy-making and management of the oil and gas sector. Management
activities include production, refining, distribution, export and import of crude oil, gas and
petroleum products as well as petrochemical industries. Management of upstream and
downstream activities is mainly carried out through the operations of four large companies and
their subsidiaries:’ (Sabetghadam, 2006)
1. National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC);
2. National Iranian Oil Products Refining and Distributing Company (NIOPRDC);
3. National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC);
4. National Petrochemical Company (NPC)
‘Iran is heavily reliant on energy-intensive industries for domestic economic production and
export. It also has a high dependence on oil products to meet primary energy needs and for its
petrochemical and metal industries. Despite diversification of energy sources for domestic
consumption, energy price reform has not been effectively pursued and energy intensity remains
high, posing a serious threat to the economy.’ (Sabetghadam, 2006) ‘Iran holds 10% of the
world’s proven oil reserves and 15% of its gas. It is OPEC's second largest exporter and the
world's fourth oil producer. Energy in Iran describes energy and electricity production,

consumption, import and export. Iran has the fourth largest oil reserves and the world's largest
natural gas reserves in the world.’ (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2015)
Figure 2-0017: Iran Oil and Gas Map (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2015)
‘Although Iran is an energy superpower, there is a constant battle to use its energy resources more
effectively in the face of subsidization and the need for technological improvements in energy
exploration and production. The energy consumption in the country is extraordinarily higher than
international standards. Iran recycles 28 percent of its used oil and gas whereas the figure for
certain countries stands at 60 percent. Iran is one of the most energy-intensive countries of the
world, with per capita energy consumption 15 times that of Japan and 10 times that of European
Union. Also due to huge energy subsidies, Iran is one of the most energy inefficient countries of
the world, with the energy intensity three times higher than global average and 2.5 times the
Middle Eastern average.’ (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2015)

The rank of energy consumption per capita based on tonnes oil equivalent in Iran has been
reported at the third level in the world (range 3.0~4.5) in 2013, as shown in the figure below.
Figure 2-0018: World Primary Energy Consumption in 2013 per capita (Source: BP Statistical Review of
World Energy, full report, 2014)
As published by the energy ministry of Iran according to the succeeding two figures, total final
energy consumption increases from 1002.1 (2006) to 1181.1 (2012) million barrel oil equivalent.
The energy flow of 2012 is the latest report which is formally stated. (E.P. Department, Iran
Energy Ministry, 2014)

Figure 2-0019: Energy Flow in Iran in 2006 (Source: E.P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry, 2014)
Figure 2-0020: Energy Flow in Iran in 2012 (Source: E.P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry, 2014)
‘In May of 2014, Iran’s energy minister announced plans to add 5,000 megawatts of renewable
power capacity to the nation’s grid by 2018—enough to power as many as two million homes.
The Renewable Energy Organisation of Iran (SUNA) was not wasting any time moving toward
the new goals. Just between the start of 2014 and the formal announcement in May, contracts for

900 MW of renewable power were signed; construction began on 400 MW. Iran has also
instituted a “feed-in tariff,” a policy mechanism that guarantees a fixed price for renewable
power. In addition, the government is offering to cover up to 50 percent of the cost of installing
residential PV arrays. As for public locations, the government has thus far installed solar panels
on more than 1,000 buildings across the country, including government offices, schools and even
mosques. Renewable energy makes sense in Iran, thanks to a wide range of abundant renewable
resources. Receiving an average of 300 days of sunshine each year, the country is particularly
well-suited for solar power. Under President Rouhani, the government’s budget for solar
implementation has risen fivefold in 2014, to $60 million, up from just $12 million in 2013.
That’s still a tiny amount by the standards of international leaders like China, or even the U.S.,
but the growth rate has been eye-catching.’ (King, 2014)
Comparing of the two following figures, it is seen that Iran, with no policy or no data about
renewable usage in 2005, is turned to be among the countries which have 3~5 enacted policy type
in 2014. Consequently, the Iranian governmental strategy supports the development or
establishment of renewable energy resources technologies.
Figure 2-0021: Policy Maps _ Countries with Renewable Energy Policies, 2005 (Source: Global Status
Report; Renewables; Paris, 2014)

Figure 2-0022: Policy Maps _ Countries with Renewable Energy Policies, Early 2014 (Source: Global
Status Report; Renewables; Paris, 2014)
Some Statistics of Renewables in Iran: (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2015)
1- ‘Solar: Because of Iran's geographical position, 90% of the country has enough sun to
generate solar power 300 days a year and has 520 watts per hour per square meter of solar
radiation every day. Other sources give an average of 2,200 kilowatt-hour solar radiation
per square meter. Energy generated by solar power reached 53 MW in 2005 and 67 MW
in 2011.’
2- ‘Wind: Iran has the potential to generate 20 to 30 GW of wind energy. That is half of the
total energy consumption needs of the country. As at 2012, Iran had 163 wind turbines
with an installed capacity of 92,470 kWh.
‘By last estimates in 2009, Iran was generating 130 MW of energy via wind power. This
energy is produced mainly in Manjil (in the Gilan province) and Binaloud (in the Razavi
Khorasan province) which produces 128 megawatts of electricity. Iran is a member of the
Global Wind Energy Council.’ (Kloosterman, 2014)

3- ‘Geothermal: Iran has the potential to become the 9th largest geothermal energy producer
in the world.’ (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2015)
2-2-4: Energy Modeling
The increasing demand of energy as a fundamental contribution for socio-economic development
of any country is well-matched with the growth in both agricultural and industrial activities.
Throughout the last two decades, several models of energy planning and management have
developed. Some of them can be listed such as 1- decentralized planning, 2- energy optimizing
through improved technologies, 3- waste recycling, 4- integrated energy planning, 5- renewable
energy sources introducing, 6- energy supply-demand investigating, and 7- energy forecasting.
The energy modelings assist the energy planners, researchers and policy makers extensively.
(Jebaraj and Iniyanb, 2004)
2-2-5: Sustainability and Renewable Energy
‘The concept of “sustainability” or “a sustainable society” is the objective of a process that has
been called “ecologically sustainable development” (ESD). Sustainable development is defined
as “the integration of social, economic and environmental factors into planning,
implementation and decision-making so as to ensure that development serves present and
future generations”. Renewable energy that is produced from sustainable natural sources will
contribute to sustainable development.’ (Shanangu, 2002, Outhred, et al., 2002 and Tubesing,
2009)
Outhred, et al., (2002) state that a sustainable energy system depending mainly on renewable
energy resources rather than fossil fuels; has very little impacts on climate, biodiversity and
pollution. Alzeyoudi (2011) supplements that renewable energy development and connected

features as portions of “Smart Eco Planet” are essential to maneuver strategies with greater
priority to sustainability.
2-2-6: Commercialization of Renewable Energy Technologies
According to Asuquo's research (2007) on the analysis of successful commercialization of
federally funded energy technologies in the U.S.A., there was no significant linear relationship
between the studied variables based on the current statistical information. His analysing of 52
Industrial Technology Programme (ITP) quantitatively from 1993 to 2006 had led to the
conclusion that the research, development, and deployment (RD&D) of federally funded energy
technologies was complex and a non-linear process. He added that the success in
commercialization required targeting the most promising innovations by jointly supporting of
both public and private sectors. Moreover, he continued his investigation by using “triangulation
theory for technology commercialization” defined by the International Energy Agency (IEA,
2003) in which three essential perspectives for good market development policy (GMDP) are
referred. These perspectives are: 1- “research, development and deployment (RD&D)
perspective” of which strength depends on its vision; 2- “market barrier perspective” of which
resulted desciplines cause efficiency in performance and higher net value; and 3- “market
transformation perspective” of which practice yields required motivations to choose appropriate
policies to obtain the desired goals.

Figure 2-0023: Technology Triangulation Model for Technology Commercialization (Source: Asuquo,
2007)
‘Although, industrialization is recognized to be one of the directions towards economic
development and improved standards of living, rapid economic growth and extensive poverty
alleviation in developing countries, it has negative consequences for climate change.’ (Coninck
and Mikunda, 2010)
Likewise the noticeable condition regarding the climate change caused by the industrial
development, the fossil energy resources should also be monitored and managed in a right way.
Besides the climate change catastrophe, the industrialization needs enormous amounts of energy
for production and development, as well. One of the most important contributors for the efficient
and sustainable industrial development is the supply of required energy from the renewable
energy resources.

‘Pacheco - in his PhD thesis - (2009) evokes the important influence of individuals’ actions in
shaping institutions within emerging or nascent industries which is less understood in comparison
to other issues such as technological progress or market conditions.’ (Pacheco, 2009)
There are many research and/or consultant companies in the world which harvest substantial
dialogues on economic potential of renewable energy resources for the aim of value creation. As
an instance, ‘the Multilateral Working Group on Solar and Wind Energy Technologies
(MWGSW) follows the mission for facilitating the interchange of best practices in economic
value formation and the process of mutual learning on the ground of an open space for developing
the relevant discussions and awareness. In fact, it supports the countries worldwide in an
enhanced deployment of renewable energy technologies.’ (Multilateral Working Group on Solar
and Wind Energy Technologies, 2011)
‘As an applicable pattern about the subject of commercialization process, the renewable energy
value chain in the power generation industry can be broken down into five fundamental portions:
(1) capital development, (2) technological components such as wind turbine or solar panels, (3)
plant development, (4) plant operations, and (5) the power business itself.’ (Hamilton, 2007)
2-2-7: Decision Support Systems in the Pathway of Renewable Energies Use
‘Selection is one of the most essential responsibilities faced by decision makers in business and
government. In deed, selection tasks are challenging because they necessitate the harmonizing of
a number of inconsistent objectives, conditions, or characteristics. Decision support systems
(DSS) are used to support a realtime decision making phenomenon in a complex, ill-structured
and/or changing environment by integrating the decision analysis tachniques with data access and
management, adjusting the decision making policy and the preferences of decision makers,
focusing on user-friendliness so that decision makers who are either not accustomed to the

complicated decision analysis methods or with the computer continual improving technology can
take full advantage of the potentials which DSS provide. HOMER, Hybrid2, INSEL, MATLAB,
PROLOAD, RETScreen, RPM-Sim, SIMENERG, WDLTOOLS, WINSYS can be known as
some examples of more commonly applied decision support systems.’ (Georgilakis, 2006) ‘The
two topmost systems which are frequently mentioned in literature on the decision support
systems’ topic are HOMER; created by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in
the U.S.A., and Hybrid2; applied complementary and jointly by the NREL and the Renewable
Energy Research Lab (RERL) at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.’ (Tubesing, 2009)
‘There are several facilities which are used to illustrate some parameters e.g. demand, supply,
feasibility and planning for the decision support systems such as analytical aids e.g. geographical
information system (GIS), visual aids e.g. special analysis and google earth.’ (Boelen, et al.,
2009) As an applied example, Gifford and Grace (2011) introduced ‘the Cost of Renewable
Energy Spreadsheet Tool (CREST) which was developed in 2010 on behalf of the National
Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). It is used to guide the state policymakers in the
evaluation and development of cost-based incentives including feed-in tariffs (FITs) to support
renewable energy technologies.’
2-2-8: Renewable Energy Project Development Process
Jones, et al. (2010) introduced the renewable energy project development process based on six
phases as follow:
(1) Pre-screening Analysis/Site Selection
(2) Renewable Energy Feasibility Analysis (Site-specific assessment)
(3) Design and Development
(4) Construction and Commissioning
(5) Performance Period
(6) Decommissioning

Figure 2-0024: Renewable Energy Project Development Process (Source: Jones, et al., 2010)
‘In order to make appropriate decisions for investing in the renewable energy technologies, access
to data is essential and in turn, simple access to reliable data may considerably help the directed
development. Therefore, different levels of resource data are required at multiple stages of project
development compatibly to the following figure.’ (Hoyer-Klick, et al., 2010)
Figure 2-0025: Use of Resource Data in Project Development (Source: Hoyer-Klick, et al., 2010)

2-2-9: Global Solar and Wind Atlas
‘In order to plan scenarios and develop strategies for deployment of the renewable energy
technologies properly, special maps which illustrate and contain some kinds of highly valuable
statistics and information such as resource potential, technologies, applications, market conditions
and the corresponding cost, legal, regulatory and policy are contributing proficiently. Actually,
the Global Atlas for Solar and Wind Energy is to integrate all of this information in one place’
(Hoyer-Klick, et al., 2010 and IRENA, 2012)
Benefits
Resource Potential
Plant Efficiencies and Energy Yield
Support (e.g. Feed-In, Quotas, Tax, etc.)
Costs
Investment Cost
Electricity Prices
Attendant Cost (e.g. Grid Connection)
Operational Cost
Miscellaneous
Further Policies (e.g. Renewable Targets)
Market Information (e.g. Installation Capacity)
Relevant Environmental Regulation
Approval Processes / Planning Manuals
Administrative Hurdles
Insurance Options
Risks (e.g. Political Stability Rankings)
Financing Options and User Guidance
Land Use and Areas Reserved for RE
Soil Conditions (e.g. Ground Stability)
Attitudes of Population / Stakeholders towards RE
Capacity Building Initiatives
Contact to Local Organisations
Best Practice Examples (e.g. Plants, etc.)
Table 2-0003: Relevant Data to Be Considered for Integration into the Atlas in the Long-Term (Source:
Hoyer-Klick, et al., 2010)

2-2-10: Converting of Renewable Energies into Electric Power
‘The most common and popular use of renewable energy sources (RES) is to convert it into the
electric power in the world. As a result, the assessment or evaluation of technical feasibility, cost,
benefit, environmental implications, and so on can be attainable in order to integrate the produced
electric power into the power supply system. The reliable and consistent style for this integration
is the hybrid use of both renewable energy sources and traditional fuels interchangeably.’
(Tubesing, 2009)
The following figure shows schematically a hybrid bi-directional power flows generated from both
renewable and fossil fuel energies in which the probable interruptions or time-varying renewable energy
productions may be compensated or interchanged in order to yield a more reliable energy supply for
consumers.
Figure 2-0026: Bi-Directional Power Flows May Result from the Use of Dispersed Electricity Generation
Technologies, particularly Time-Varying Renewable Energy Generation (Original Source: NREL; then,
Outhred, et al., 2007)

‘Naturally, some relevant topics such as deployment of smart grid technologies, growing
penetration of distributed renewable energy sources, energy efficiency programmes, and
availability of massive information will be materialized on scales different from those
traditionally studied.’ (Grijalva, 2011)
‘Locating widely distinct and far from demand centres stands a real challenge for use of
renewable energy resources. Moreover, there are particular problems or growing constraints
facing the power transmission systems e.g. inaccessibility or insufficient capacity of transmission
lines, distance-based charges in pricing mechanisms, penalties for supplementary services, high
infrastructure costs for the initial hook-up to the power grid, and mismatch of wind power with
peak load conditions; in other words, in most onshore locations, wind blows strongest during the
night and during the winter. However, electricity demand is strongest during the day and the
summer.’ (Hamilton, 2007)
Storage of the electricity produced by the renewable resources has been another real challenge for
the decision makers and owners. Zweibel, et al. (2008) stated an underground storage system of
electricity from photovoltaic farms in the form of compressed air in the U.S.A. according to the
following figure:

Figure 2-0027: Underground Storage of Electricity from Photovoltaic Farms in the Form of Compressed
Air in the U.S.A. (Source: Zweibel, et al., 2008)
The other challenge for electricity production from renewable energy resources is the cost of
installation and production/maintenance. El-Husseini et al. (2009) presented the comparing costs
of electricity generation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region between natural gas
and the popular renewable energy resources i.e. wind and solar. Although the cost of energy
produces by solar systems is nearly high, the wind is very competitive with the traditional
generation from natural gas. The comparing trends is shown in the following figure:
Figure 2-0028: Cost of Electricity Generation in the MENA Region (Source: El-Husseini, et al., 2009)
Morris, et al. (2010) presented the cost calculation of electricity generated from various energy
sources according the following table. The lowest costs belonged to both pulverized coal and
NGCC; while the highest cost belonged to solar PV.

1 Pulverized Coal 0.061
2 NGCC 0.061
3 Wind 0.083
4 Biomass 0.091
5 Wind Plus Gas Backup 0.112
6 Solar Thermal 0.178
7 Wind Plus Biomass Backup 0.195
8 Solar PV 0.251
Table 2-0004: Cost Calculation of Electricity from Various Sources (Source: Morris, et al., 2010)
The levelized cost of new power generation technologies in 2008 was stated in the Guide to
Purchasing Green Power (2010) which shows the following platforms from the lowest cost to the
highest according to the following figure:
1. Geothermal
2. Wind (onshore)
3. Biomass
4. Natural Gas
5. Coal
6. Nuclear
7. Solar PV

Figure 2-0029: Levelized Cost of New Power Generation Technologies in 2008 (Source: Guide to
Purchasing Green Power, 2010)
‘Müller-Steinhagen and Trieb (2014) describe the standpoint of a sustainable supply of electric
power for Europe (EU), the Middle East (ME) and North Africa (NA) up to the year 2050
(EUMENA region). They state that high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) transmission over long
distances contributes substantially to increase the compensational effects between distant and
local energy sources, and it allows failures of large power stations to be accommodated via distant
backup capacity. In other words, a combination of the conventional Alternating Current (AC) grid
for local distribution and high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) transmission technology for long-
distance transfer will be used in a Trans-Mediterranean electricity scheme based mainly on
renewable energy sources with some fossil fuel backup. In order to attain those benefits,
governments in EUMENA must take the initiative and establish an adequate legal and financial
framework for new investing on clean and sustainable energy.’ (Müller-Steinhagen and Trieb,
2014)
‘The MENA region has an opportunity to reinvent its energy sector and even its countries’ overall
economies. Not all renewable energy technologies will be viable for the region. Wind and solar
offer the greatest potential. Other forms of renewable energy including geothermal and biomass
may be promising, however most MENA countries do not have the natural resources to make
them feasible. To develop a sustainable renewable energy sector, regional governments will need
to take a number of critical steps:’ (El-Husseini, et al., 2009)
• Develop a renewable energy strategy that positions the sector as a key element of the overall
energy strategy;
• Put in place an adequate institutional setting at the government level;
• Develop a favorable policy and regulatory framework to promote the development and use of
renewable energy;
• Enable technical grid integration;

• Develop long-term capabilities and a deep talent pool;
• The competitive landscape in the renewable energy sector is still evolving. Those countries
that act quickly at this stage could eventually become the sector’s world leaders.

CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The purpose of this chapter is to explain the research methodology which has been adopted by the
researcher for the whole study as well as techniques used to develop the information and produce
the expected knowledge, scientifically. The present methodology is an inductive approach using
qualitative and case study research methods on the philosophical ground of post-positivism.
The research paradigm, philosophy, ontology and epistemology have been discussed in brief as
the main foundation and architecture of this thesis. It is followed by some descriptions about how
to approach and design the present research together with reviewing the main steps, milestones
and chain of evidence for this research.
In the next section, the philosophical research strategy has been stated. Thereafter in section 3-6,
it is explained that the research strategy has been fundamentally based on questionnaire and
interview survey methods. In continuation, the chapter discusses briefly what research methods
have been used, that is, a qualitative as well as multiple case study. Meanwhile, a summarized
overview of the whole methodological activities has been demonstrated in section 3-6-3. Finally,
section 3-7 describes how data collections have been performed to execute the whole study
efficiently.
Hence, this chapter can be organised with seven sections and nine sub-sections as follow:
3-1: Research Paradigm
3-2: Research Philosophy
3-3: Ontology and Epistemology
3-4: Research Approach
3-4-1: Research Design
3-4-2: Main Steps and Milestones of the Present Research
3-4-3: Chain of Evidence

3-5: Philosophical Research Strategy
3-6: Research Methods
3-6-1: Questionnaire and Interview
3-6-2: Case Study
3-6-3: Summary
3-7: Data Collecting Methods
3-7-1: Gathering Decision Making Aspects/Factors for Prioritisation and Approval of
3-7-2: Case-Study One: Natural Gas Processing Companies (Refineries) in Iran
3-7-3: Case-Study Two: Iran Renewable Energy Organisation (SUNA)
3-1: Research Paradigm
Paradigm is defined as: ‘… an organising framework that contains the concepts, theories,
assumptions, beliefs, values, and principles that inform a discipline on how to interpret the subject
matter of concern.’ (Sheikh, 2012)
The paradigm of the present research can be well-matched with this definition. Paradigms are
generally used to comprise the basis of the whole research, to strengthen its foundation by
intertwining the researchers' ontology, epistemology, and research strategy and to develop the
related new knowledge which is to be added to the existing, relevant body of knowledge as a
result of the mentioned investigating activities in a scientific manner.
‘Morgan (2007) summarized four basic versions of the paradigm concept from the most general
perspective to the most specific form. These forms or perspectives complement each other and
help the researcher to understand a specific phenomenon’ as described briefly below (Sheikh,
2012):

1. Paradigms as worldviews or a way to think about the world and nature of the reality
from an ontological perspective.
2. Paradigms as epistemological stances consisted of positivism, realism, pragmatism, and
constructivism. This perspective - which helps and is used to answer the research
questions -; comes down to a researcher's worldviews or ontology and then to knowledge
inquiring. So, epistemology is considered as a link between the nature of the knowledge
and the inquiring about it.
3. Paradigms as shared or common beliefs among members of a specialty area which
are agreed as the most appropriate methodologies that can be deployed in the given area.
This could include the most appropriate questions to ask, the most suitable research
frameworks to be used, research protocols to be followed and so on.
4. Paradigms as model examples of research to show how research should be done in a
specific field. This perspective helps the researchers and provides them an opportunity to
learn how they can deal with the issues in a specific field.
Although all the above four perspectives can apply to this reseach to varying degrees, the
researcher considers that the second and the third descriptions are the most pertinent. The
introduced post-positivistic epistemology which will be discussed further during the next sections
is considered as a link between the nature of the problem; i.e. existing no objective substance or
less intention for implementing the renewable energy projects, and the proposed strategic
recommendations. The decision-making aspects/factors have been investigated and categorized to
yield an analytical result and to propose some room for betterment in decision making process
relevant to the subject of this research.

3-2: Research Philosophy
The present research philosophy takes a post-positivistic approach. ‘In this philosophy, search for
regularities and causal relationships in certain situations is done and methods can be both
qualitative and/or quantitative. Moreover, reality is mostly objective, but subjectively exists in
individuals.’ (Muller, 2010) As stated by Meyer, ‘post-positivism is related to positivism but
differs in that post-positivism accepts that the values, background, experience, knowledge and
theories of the researcher can influence on what is observed.’ In this research, how to sense the
problem is a key point for evaluation of each factor by the selected energy managers, specialists
or professionals. Some individuals i.e. top managers are in a position to subjectively influence on
the real decision-making process and there are some connections between the object of the study
and the researcher’s professional values, background, experience and knowledge which have led
him to choose the topic of this research to investigate scientifically about the problem of
neglecting the prioritisation and approval of the renewable energy projects in the targeted
companies.
Evaluation of the factors in a rating process has been adopted in the current research which is a
kind of human interpretation or how he minds about the case.
3-3: Ontology and Epistemology
As mentioned previously, the present thesis as a scientific investigation endeavors to identify the
essential decision-making factors that lead to prioritisation and approval of renewable energy
projects of the targeted companies as the first case studied and to propose some strategic
recommendations as a result of an in-depth study in the second selected case.

Ontology is defined as the discipline, knowledge, science or the study of being. ‘It is known as
one of the oldest branches of philosophy called metaphysics which analyses and systemizes all
concepts that are exclusive property of any special science, like those of nature, space, time,
history and society.’ (Muller, 2010)
‘In the social and behavioral sciences, most of the ontological choices fall between two extremes,
which are positivism and constructivism.’ (Shao 2010 adopted from Tashakkori & Teddlie, 1998; Alvesson
& Sköldberg, 2009; Rousseau et al., 2008; Easterby-Smith et al., 1991; Bechara & Van de Ven, 2007) They can be
defined as follow:
1. Positivism: the social world exists externally, is objective and its properties should be
measured through objective methods, not inferred subjectively. (Shao, 2010
adopted from Easterby-Smith et al. 1991).
2. Constructivism: reality – or at least selected parts thereof – is not something naturally
given. The existence of a reality is socially constructed. (Shao, 2010 adopted from
Bechara & Vande Ven, 2007; Alvesson & Sköldberg, 2009)
Constructivism is typically a main school of post positivism. As explained in the previous section
while describing the research philosophy, this research endeavours to investigate the reality as an
existing problem of not prioritising or approving the renewable energy projects in project
portfolio management through a right decision making process. Indeed, there is assumed to be a
cause and effect relationship between the factors and decision makers’ perceptions and final
decisions made and exposed as the consequent situation. Therefore, post-positivism can be
properly considered to represent ontologically the current research.
Epistemology argues ‘what constitutes truth and how truth can be tested. It comprises the
concepts of knowledge, science, model and testability. It is closely linked with the ontological

stance the researcher takes and indentifies the relationship between the researcher and the data. It
answers if the researcher and the object of study are separate and independent entities. In
epistemology, knowledge is seen as a development from gestalt to an understood structure. It
arises in experience and emerges from reflection, develops through inference and exhibits a
distinctive structure.’ (Muller, 2010)
Knowledge is the basic foundation of epistemology. Studying the alternative epistemologies in
management and organisational research proposed by Rousseau et al., 2008 (Shao, 2010 p.96), the
epistemological stance of the present research is also post-positivism that is very near to
positivism whereas:
A. the reality is objective;
B. the application of evidence is confirmatory or only what is observable exists;
C. the focus is on observation as reality.
3-4: Research Approach
There are two fundamental extremes or techniques, namely, deduction and induction methods for
a scientific investigation which can be adopted by a researcher separately or as a stepwise
procedure according to the epistemological development. As Sekaran states, ‘answers to issues
can be found either by the process of deduction or the process of induction, or by a combination
of the two. Deduction is the process by which we arrive at a reasoned conclusion by logical
generalization of a known fact. Induction, on the other hand, is a process where we observe
certain phenomena and on this basis arrive at conclusions. In other words, in induction we
logically establish a general proposition based on observed facts.’ (Sekaran, 2003)
The research has been initiated by an observation or awareness of the problematic issue of the
lack of the renewable energy usage in the gas processing companies. Thereafter, the problem has

been identified and developed literally and research questions have been aroused according to the
problem. In the next step, all decision making factors have been collected through literature
review and organised to be investigated scientifically. In this way, the result of the literature
review has later been applied to design an appropriate questionnaire for the subsequent analysis.
To deepen or intensify the analytical investigations, some interviews have been conducted, as
well. Therefore, an inductive approach has been used in order to analyse the findings based on the
ratings given by the selected respondents via questionnaire in which 46 factors with positive and
negative impacts on decision process have been rated founded on the mentioned professionals’
experience and perceptions. Moreover, the results obtained from the interviews have been
categorized, analysed and added to propose some strategic recommendations and support the
whole research more appropriately.
3-4-1: Research Design
The overall research design is based on thorough and stepwise study activities; together with
several cross-sectional actions during the first investigation and in the synchronized and continual
actions, as well. As a preliminary step, in order to prepare a list of anticipated decision-making
aspects/factors related to the topic of the thesis, the researcher has collected and then categorized
all found and scatterbrained applicable factors with positive or negative impacts while reviewing
the literature as the primary list having been ready for evaluation rating of the energy managers
and/or personnel regarding energy management within the defined research boundary consisting
both the units of analysis; i.e. the natural gas processing companies in Iran selected as one object
of the case studies. Therefore, the foundation of the research is a perspective of all essential
factors or variables contributing to the decision makers to materialize their visualizations about
the subject.

On the other hand, all proposed factors shall be rated by the intellectual and professional energy
managers who are naturally and responsibly seeking a continual improvement in the energy
performance of their relevant companies. As a general aspiration for improvement, the more
energy usage from the renewable energy resources, the less energy usage from the fossil energy
resources which is more preferred to maintain for the next generations.
In the meantime, all the respondents will have been requested to insert and then rate any
additional factor(s) which they suppose as a supplementary to the prepared list if any exists.
Nonetheless, no extra aspects/factors have been proposed by the respondents.
3-4-2: Main Steps and Milestones of the Present Research Design
Figure 3-0001: Main Steps and Milestones of the Present Research Design in an Overall View

Milestone 1: Developing the framework of the research study
 Step 1: Reviewing related literature or documentary references, categorizing and analysing
them for initial research design and continual refinement
 Step 2: Submission for approval and refining of the research proposal until accepted
Milestone 2: Designing, orgainizing executing and performing data analysis of surveys
 Step 3: Designing the questionnaire survey, dispatching the questionnaire, collecting and
analysing responses
 Step 4: Designing the interviews*
, conducting interviews and collating interview results
Milestone 3: Elaborating the findings
 Step 5: Integrating the results of the questionnaire survey and interview to construct
strategic recommendations for optimizing decision-making for informed renewable
energy utilization
 Step 6: Validating the findings data and finalizing the whole work as the dissertation
* Description of the asterisk in Step 3:
As it is anticipated that the use of renewable energy would include not
only economic and societal parameters but also political parameters
in Iran as well as the other countries in the world, case studies will be
conducted to enable a more in-depth analysis of the background of
the related decision-making environment.
3-4-3: Chain of Evidence
The researcher’s chain of evidence declares the relationships between research/interview
questions and the propositions. Moreover, it shows that how the research findings are founded on
or actually the results of the collected data relevant to all research and interview questions. In

section 5-1, the explanations of supporting or rejecting of each proposition have been written. The
first nine propositions have been supported and the tenth has been rejected. The following figures
show the overall view of the chain, the supporting/rejecting results for propositions and and the
two relationships as stated above:

Figure 3-0002: Chain of Evidence in this Research – Overall View

Figure 3-0003: Chain of Evidence in this Research – The Relationships between Research Questions and
Propositions

Figure 3-0004: Chain of Evidence in this Research – The Relationships between Interview Questions and
Propositions

3-5: Philosophical Research Strategy
In this research, the qualitative approach using multiple case study has been used. Johnson (2008)
introduced ‘six philosophical concept pairs that are especially useful for characterizing
differences among quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research communities’ as
indicated below. (Teddlie and Tashakkori, 2009)
1. Materialism versus Idealism:
Materialism is the doctrine, held by many natural scientists, that the world and reality is most
essentially and fundamentally composed of matter. The competing doctrine, which is called
idealism, holds that ideas and “the mental” (including the social and cultural) are most
fundamentally real.
2. Empiricism versus Rationalism:
Empiricism is the doctrine that knowledge comes from experience. The competing doctrine is
rationalism according to which knowledge is viewed as coming from reasoning and thought.
3. Deduction versus Induction:
According to one longstanding viewpoint, deduction refers to reasoning from “the general to the
particular”, and induction refers to reasoning from “the particular to the general.” According to
many current writers in philosophy, these terms are defined as follows: deductive reasoning is
the process of drawing a conclusion that s necessarily true if the premises are true, and inductive
reasoning is the process of drawing a conclusion that is probably true.
4. Absolutism versus Relativism:

Absolutism is the doctrine that there are many natural laws and unchanging truths concerning
the world. The competing doctrine, called relativism, rejects making broad generalizations and
holds that true or warranted knowledge can vary by person or group, place, and time.
5. Nomothetic versus Ideographic:
Nomothemic methods are concerned with identifying laws and that which is predictable and
general. In contrast, ideographic methods are concerned with individual, specific, particular,
and oftentimes unique facts. The natural sciences are nomothemic (although they might study
single cases in search of general laws), and the humanities tend to be more ideographic in
approach and focus.
6. Naturalism versus Humanism:
Naturalism is the doctrine that the focus of science should be on the natural/material world and
that researchers should search for physical causes of phenomena. Humanism is the doctrine that
researchers should focus on the more human characteristics of people, including free will and
autonomy, creativity, emotionality, rationality, morality, love for beauty, and uniqueness.
For building a six-faced perspective of this research philosophically, the following matched
conceptual blend is produced:
Idealism + Empiricism + Induction + Relativism + Ideography + Humanism
It has been called; “the cubic perspective of the current research method philosophy” by the
researcher.

3-6: Research Methods
The research strategy adopted by the researcher is the usage of questionnaire and interview on the
ground of case study. In this section, brief explanations concerning these strategies have been
stated.
3-6-1: Questionnaire and Interview
Sekaran (2003) has stated some advantages and disadvantages of the various modes of data
collection which are basically divided into two main categories that are questionnaire and
interview in the following table.
Table 3-0001: Advantages and Disadvantages of Interviews and Questionnaires (Source: Sekaran, 2003)

‘The types of information we need to collect from respondents and how best to elicit that
information are two key decisions that must be made early in the survey design phase. We need to
know whether we will be asking many open-ended questions, mostly closed-ended questions,
or both. In the former category of questions, the respondents answer in their own words. In the
latter category, respondents choose from a list of provided responses. A personal interview or
face-to-face survey is probably best if it is essential to (a) hand respondents the lists of choices
from which they are to select an answer, (b) give them other types of visual aids to help formulate
answers, or (c) have them consult personal records or perform other memory-assisting tasks. We
always want to make the respondent’s task as easy as possible, thus minimizing the reasons for
not responding.’ (Czaja and Blair, 2005)
According to the above preliminary descriptions, the researcher tried to design a rating-demand
questionnaire consisting of closed-ending questions handed over to the selected respondents. This
type of questions has been chosen to minimize the time required for answering. In order to deepen
the analysing process of the findings, some appropriate interviews were conducted as a
complementary accomplishment for the whole investigation.
In the designed questionnaire, a space was specialized in the front of each factor in case of need
for any necessary explanation to clarify the reason why the respondent rated that way. Naturally,
only the amounts of ratings would go into the statistical analysis.
3-6-2: Case Study
‘Case studies are widely used for management research. Case study research is of particular value
where the theory base is comparatively weak and the environment under study is messy. Both
these criteria apply to research into operations management (OM).’ (Partington, 2009)
Narrowing down the above paragraph, the ‘case study is one of the major research strategies in
contemporary social science - or more exactly, in contemporary sociology and political science.

What are cases good for? Social scientists have traditionally given two overlapping answers to
that question: case studies can help to identify causal relationships, and can help to understand the
worldview of the people they study.’ The first answer is called “causal case study” and the
second, “interpretive case study”. Moreover, a complimentary answer as the third one is the
“normative case study”. Briefly speaking, ‘normative case study aims to contribute to our
understanding of important public values to ideas.’ (Thacher, 2006)
‘Interest in qualitative research methods such as action research, case study research and
ethnography, which focus on understanding social phenomena in their natural setting, has recently
grown.’ (Darke, Shanks, et al., 1998)
3-6-2-1: The Position of Case-based Research
‘It is appropriate at this point to review the position of case-based research with respect to other
approaches in operations management. A framework has been adapted for operations
management by Meredith et al. (1989: 309) after Mitroff and Mason (1982),’ shown in the
following table: (Partington, 2009)
Table 3-0002: Framework for Research Methods (Source: Partington, 2009; Originally; Meredith et al.,
1989)

The present research process stays moderately between both horizontal i.e. natural versus artificial
and vertical i.e. existential versus rational poles. Based on the terminology specified in the above
figure, it can be concluded that the current research lies actually on the cross-sectional area
obtained from; “people’s perceptions of object reality” and “logical positivism/empiricism”.
Once more, it is confirmed that the adopted strategy how to conduct this research which is a
combination of the survey research i.e. the questionnaire and the structured interviewing is
appropriate.
‘Meredith et al. (1989: 308) go on to assert that the critical issue is between reliability and
external validity, stating that, 'survey instruments provide very reliable data but their validity in
actually measuring constructs is suspected … the most valid information is obtained by direct
involvement with the phenomenon. While Partington finds Meredith's framework a useful
rationalization of a complex web of possible research process, case study research is actually an
envelope for several possible research methods – more accurately referred to as a research
strategy. Thus, structured interviews, field studies and surveys are all possible methods which can
be deployed under the case study banner.’ (Partington, 2009) In this research, the combination of
field studies and surveys are actually chosen as the method of research strategy.
3-6-2-2: Rigor in Case Study Research
Normally, some hesitations are disputed about rigor in case study research. Yin (1994: 33ff) lists
four tests which are commonly used to establish the quality of any empirical social research.
These are discussed in a few words as follow: (Partington, 2009)
 Construct validity: establishing correct operational measures for the concepts being
studied. The prepared questionnaire for the present research contained close-ended

questions. There is no need to introduce special operational measuring system.
Because it is designed according to a simple rating system.
 Internal Validity: establishing a causal relationship whereby certain conditions are
shown to lead to other conditions as distinguished from spurious relationships. As
indicated in the following figure, one is circulating between theory and evidence, so
case study research provides an ongoing opportunity to test causal relationships.
Indeed, most of the factors listed in the current survey are globally well-known in the
project management documented knowledge. Their entities are substantially separated
and they are more or less independent in nature. Therefore, they do not have any
counterfeit inter-relationships and the potential to generate any spurious condition
authentically.
Figure 3-0005: Exploration-Description-Explanation-Testing Cycle (Source: Partington, 2009; Originally;
Meredith, 1993)
 External Validity: establishing a domain to which a study's findings may be
generalized. In this research, the case study concerns all the similar companies in Iran.
According to the exact similarity among the gas processing companies regarding the
exclusive and unique mission which is the sweetening of the sour natural gas and

recovering the contained sulfur out of acid gas as a side product, or simply
dehydrating the natural gas in order to reach to the desired i.e. designed dew point, all
the cases or potential units of analysis can definitely be considered the same. In other
words, considering the unique production path for all the gas processing companies
which are passing through, potential opportunities for the use of renewable energy
resources are almost similar. Consequently, the integration of the insights of the
selected respondents as the real delegates of these companies on the subject can raise
the validity and reliability of the research done. Therefore, no dichotomy may be
generated in this way.
 Reliability: demonstrating that the operation of a study can be repeated with the same
results. According to the subject chosen to be researched in this study, the subject is
related to a general problem being encountered by all of the studied similar
companies. The researcher believes that the maximum involvement of the specialists
and professional people working in the selected companies logically contributes to the
reliability of the results. Although, it is almost unattainable to obtain exactly the same
results if any designed research procedure be repeated. The reason may be because of
any change in the circumstances or any substitution of the responsible and influential
people. However, it was tried to define the boundary of the case study research as
wide as possible in order to minimize and/or even exclude all doubts about the
accuracy of the gained results if being conducted in the similar companies in Iran.
Considering and integrating all of the above explanations, there seems to be no disturbance
regarding the achieved results. Although, the theory yielded by this research can be an initial
point for further supplementary investigations in future.

In the present research, the phenomenon or factors under study were almost fixed. That means as
a structured approach for evaluation, all attention had been paid to yield the factor list as
completely and perfectly as possible. Meanwhile, it was requested from all the respondents or
participants to insert any missing or non-mentioned factor in the questionnaire if there was any. In
this regard, the research had the characteristic of being dynamic in case, as well.
3-6-3: Summary
‘Research Philosophies: Saunders et al. (2007) is of the opinion that knowledge on the
ontological and epistemological positions are fundamental in developing the research
philosophies and research design. “Ontology is the study of being and existence in the world and
to know how are things” such position is taken, and epistemology is the study of the nature of
knowledge, including how it is created and shared. It is concerned with what can be known and
the confidence we have in knowledge. Epistemology is based on ontological position, (Yeong,
2011). Ontological and epistemological positions of the current research has been identified in
view to make the appropriate selection of the methods, techniques, paradigms, approaches and
related research methodological aspects for the context. According to Blaikie (2000, p. 8)
“ontological assumptions are concerned with what we believe constitutes social reality”. The
research paradigms answers three fundamental questions, “the ontological question is what is the
form and nature of reality?, the epistemological question is what is the basic belief about
knowledge and the methodological question is how can the researcher go about finding out
whatever he believes can be known” (Guba and Lincoln, 1994, p.19) The following figure gives a
graphical representation of the research strategy:’ (Alzeyoudi, PhD Thesis, 2011).

Figure 3-0006: Research Strategy (Source: Alzeyoudi, PhD Thesis, 2011; Originally; Yoeng, 2011, p.24)
At a glance, the research methodology used in this thesis can be summarized as follow:
Paradigm: Intertwining the researcher’s ontology, epistemology, axiology or research strategy
Philosophy: Post-positivism
Ontology: Post-positivism
Reality or the problem mentioned as the aim of the thesis is mostly objective, but
subjectively exists in individuals as decision makers.
Epistemology: Post-positivism
Reality is almost measurable and tangible. Causalities as factors are being
categorized. Hypotheses are to be tested and an algorithm is to be proposed.
Approach: Induction
Nature of the Study: Exploratory
Method: Qualitative and Case Study Methods
Exposing the cubic perspective of idealism, empiricism, induction, relativism,
ideography, and humanism
Strategy: 1. Questionnaire; 2. Interview
Analysing and collaborative Technique: Qualitative Analysis

3-7: Data Collecting Methods
As previously mentioned, the researcher is trying to answer three research questions in this
dissertation. In terms of each research question, the researcher has selected a separated method for
collecting required data as follow briefly:
Research Question 1: What are the essential decision-making aspects/factors affecting
prioritisation and approval of renewable energy projects?
Selected Data Collecting Method: As stated in more detail in section 3-7-1, the researcher has
collected the essential decision-making aspects and factors through
literature review.
Research Question 2: How can these essential decision-making aspects/factors which are
categorized mainly into two types: one with assumedly positive
impacts and the other with negative impacts be sorted based on
their degrees of perceived influence?
sorted the essential decision-making aspects/factors through a
qualitative analysis of the data gathered from questionnaires responded
by energy managers or senior specialists working in natural gas
refineries in Iran.
Research Question 3: What are the strategic recommendations for the strategic action
planning activities executed by top managers as principal decision-
makers of the targeted companies?
proposed the strategic recommendations as well as action plans through
a qualitative analysis of the answers to interview questions stated by top
managers or senior specialists working in renewable energy
organisation of Iran (SUNA) as well as from the findings from the
questionnaire survery responses.

3-7-1: Gathering Decision Making Aspects/Factors for Prioritisation and Approval of
While seeking the literature relevant to the subject of this research, twenty three references which
contained some factors useful for decision making in this area were gradually collected.
Thereafter, the factors which could conceptually appear or be raised according to the mission of
the Iranian natural gas process companies or gas refineries had been added. In the first step, the
adopted factors from each reference were listed. At the second, they have been merged to produce
the final list which is applicable for the current research.
‘The important role of externalities: Economists define externalities as positive or negative
effects of an activity that do not appear as direct costs or benefits to the individual or organisation
undertaking the activity and thus do not influence on project decision making. The term “impact”
is often used interchangeably with the term “externality”. Externalities are often abstract, such as
the visual impact of a project or concerns about climate change. Thus they may have local,
regional or global scale. People who are affected by the externalities of a project are often
described as stakeholders, and may differ from one externality to another. Because renewable
energy technologies are innovative, their externalities may not be well understood and the
associated stakeholder groups may not be well defined.’ (Outhred, et al., 2002) Therefore, the
adopted list may not be one hundred percent perfect. However, the researcher tried to end up it as
more completed as possible.
3-7-2: Case-Study One: Natural Gas Processing Companies in Iran
In this research, the questionnaire had been sent via e-mail to all respondents in the first step. It
was done after recognizing potential respondents and preparing a list thereof. Thereafter, they
were re-informed by means of telephone contacts one by one and requested to fill up the

questionnaire, send back and also try to dispatch it by submitting to as many people relevant to
the energy management decision making process as they can, in order to raise the obtainable
validity and reliability while data analysing.
In most of the gas processing companies of Iran, there is an organisational sector called “energy
studies department” with a formal organisational position called “senior energy management
specialist”. Some of the companies do not have such an organisational department and the related
duties or activities are being done by the chemical process engineering department personnel,
instead. In some companies, for instance Shahid-Hashemi-Nezhad gas processing company, the
senior energy management specialist holds the title of the energy manager of the whole company,
as well. Of course, the energy management responsibilities are defined to be done by several
colleagues known as energy team members who have other main or preceding organisational
responsibilities or duties in the company, themselves. However, they help the energy management
department in some tasks such as gathering of some data, analysing the causes of some changes in
energy performance indices, controlling of the energy performance improvement projects and so
on. As a result, all potential for exploring any opportunity, and guide it systematically towards
improvement projects to optimize the energy consumptions is handed out by the energy manager
or the senior energy management specialist. It was the reason why the selected respondents
consisted of these organisationally responsible people had been defined and organised for this
research. In fact, they are the foremost or primary mind directors of decision makers about any
energy improvement projects or energy action plans. Actually, they are able to convey the
environment existing in the companies where they are working in about all the dilemmas of
energy management concerns such as the present research subject.
As per attached in appendix 3 in the last sections of this dissertation, a bi-lingual (English-
Persian) package was prepared and sent to all the selected respondents as the delegates of all eight
main gas processing companies of Iran listed in the following table:

Row Natural Gas Processing Company Abbreviation Response Received?
1 Shahid Hashemi-Nezhad Gas Processing Company (Khangiran) S.G.P.C. Yes
2 Fajr-e-Jam Gas Processing Company F.G.P.C. Yes
3 South Pars Gas Complex
S.P.G.C. (Phase 1) S.P.G.C. (Refinery# 1) Yes
S.P.G.C. (Phases 2,3) S.P.G.C. (Refinery# 2) Yes
S.P.G.C. (Phases 6,7,8) S.P.G.C. (Refinery# 4) Yes
S.P.G.C. (Phases 15,16) S.P.G.C. (Refinery# 6) Under Construction
S.P.G.C. (Phases 11) Under Construction Under Construction
S.P.G.C. (Phases 12) S.P.G.C. (Refinery# 9) Under Construction
S.P.G.C. (Phases 22,23,24) Under Construction Under Construction
4 Bidboland Gas Processing Company B.G.P.C. Yes
5 Sarkhoon-o-Qeshm Gas Processing Company Q.G.P.C. Yes
6 Parsian Gas Processing Company P.G.P.C. Yes
7 Ilam Gas Processing Company I.G.P.C. Yes
8 Masjed-Solayman Gas Processing Company M.S.G.P.C. No
Table 3-0003: Natural Gas Processing Companies (Refineries) of Iran
The mentioned package accompanied by the questionnaire of which illustration is shown in
appendix 4; were sent via e-mail to the selected responding candidates working in the gas
processing companies of Iran and some selected who are working in the managerial hierarchical
main office in Tehran, i.e. National Iranian Gas Company (N.I.G.C.) as two attachments of a
bilingual request letter shown in appendix 2. Thereafter, several communicating methods such as
phone calls, short message sending via cell phone, sending reminding e-mails, requesting the
colleagues to remind others and so on were conducted to gather the opinions and perceptions of
the responding candidates in a rating method for 46 pre-recognized factors listed in the
questionnaire.

3-7-3: Case-Study Two: Iran Renewable Energy Organisation (SUNA)
‘Organisation for Renewable Energies (SUNA) was established in 1995 as an affiliate under
ministry of energy’s deputy for energy affairs. Since 2003, SUNA is responsible for the
development of renewable energies within the ministry of energy. SUNA operates under the
auspices of TAVANIR and through its departments that deal with solar, hydrogen, geothermal,
wind energy [and so on].’ (Sabetghadam, 2006)
Figure 3-0007: Iran Renewable Energy Organisation Main Office in Tehran (Source: Iran Renewable
Energy Organisation, SUNA, 2014)
‘History & objectives of Iran Renewable Energy Organisation (SUNA): Today, the increased
consumption of energy in modern industrial societies has, in addition to the risk of quick
exhaustion of fossil resources, brought about irreversible and threatening environmental changes
faced by the world. Accordingly in conjunction with the stable global development, special role
has been assigned to renewable resources of energy in international plans and policies. The
European Union, for example, has determined to generate 12% of the required electric energy for
the year 2010 from renewable resources of energy. Further policies made by the Ministry of
Energy’s Deputy Directorate for Energy, Iran Renewable Energy Organisation (SUNA) has been
attending this matter since 1995 in order to achieve updated information and technology in
connection with utilization of renewable energy resources, measurement of potentials and

execution of various projects (solar, wind and geothermal, hydrogen and biomass). Due to the
volume and diversity of operations, at the end of the year 1378 [early 2000] the Ministry of
Energy submitted it’s proposal as to change the nature of SUNA to that of a governmental
institution to the cabinet to fill the vacancy of a governmental organisation responsible for
renewable energy development. This was done pursuant to Articles 1 and 2 of the Establishment
Act of the Ministry of Energy approved on February 17,1975 as wall as Note 2 of single Act of
the 1999 General Budget Law. On February 27, 2000, in order for development of renewable
energy as a crucial international/regional matter, the Cabinet approved (approval No
H21343T/65004) the Ministry of Energy’s proposal as to the establishment of SUNA
Government Company who would be responsible for management of relevant projects. This was
in congruity with government policies on energy, made by the state Expediency Council on
January 13, 1999 and approved by the leader on January 22, 2001 (notified under No 76330/1)
where two out of eleven articles related to the subject of renewable energy.’ (Iran Renewable
‘Accordingly, by virtue of the Cabinet’s approval No H2528288T/2732 dated may 23, 2003
(concerning the approval of SUNA’s Articles of Association), Iran Renewable Energy
Organisation [SUNA]- registered under No 161299 on April 18, 2000- was changed into an
absolutely government company aimed at developing the application of energies resulting from
renewable resources, and assumed [the] responsibility, as manager of Energy Deputy
Directorate’s projects, for carrying out R&D activities, rendering design and consultation
services, manufacturing and operating renewable energy systems until the end of the year 1381
[mid March 2003] after which, it started executing relevant projects directly.’ (Iran Renewable
‘Assignments and Duties of Iran Renewable Energy Organisation (SUNA): Contributing to
the stabilization and diversification of energy resources, development of capacities and

minimization of long-term expenses associated with energy generation, preservation of
environment and non- renewable energy resources of Iran through management of renewable
resources of energy and management of new energies generation / consumption development
while focusing on maximized private sector participation. These assignments and duties are
realized through the following activities:’ (Iran Renewable Energy Organisation, SUNA, 2014)
1. ‘Active participation in the establishment of the national energy plan and new energies
strategy in Iran
2. Active participation in the establishment and management of a secure market for
generators of new energies in Iran
3. Preparation of Atlas and feasibility study of different resources of new energies in Iran
4. Establishment and protection of relations between domestic organisations and experts
active in the field of new energies on the one hand and international organisations, experts
and associations on the other
5. Identification of international resources and endeavoring to attract and allocate such
resources to generation/research activities in connection with new energies in Iran
6. Introducing technology development strategies in connection with new energies and
determining research priorities associated with such energies in order to protect
generation/research centres towards the development of relevant technologies
7. Tracing technological changes in connection with new energies and providing information
on the outcome of such changes to the Iranian generation/research centres
8. Paving the way for transfer, attraction and export of technologies related to new energies
and supporting relevant agencies in connection with utilization and commercialization of
such energies
9. Active participation in establishment of laws and standards to protect generation and R&D
activities in connection with new energies
10. Educating and encouraging people to use new energies’

A brief explanation of how the interview process has been done:
To gather the necessary information for comprehensive preparation answer to the third research
question in this thesis, the best choice done by the researcher was the renewable energies
organisation in Iran (SUNA). Therefore, the researcher initially negotiated with one of his closest
business associate senior managers of SUNA (currently the SUNA’s president senior consultant)
and presented general comment on the subject of my doctoral thesis. Then he afforded the
opportunity to interview twenty managers and/or senior experts working in SUNA for broader and
in-depth views.
Four ways of obtaining answers were devised. First, it was to record the interviewee's answers to
every single predetermined question; thereafter the researcher documented all material presented
by them to be investigated and analysed. The second method was used for those interviewees who
would not like to record their voices and allowed me to write down their answers. A third method
was applied to those who were willing to answer questions later (after a few days) and sending me
via e-mail. The fourth method was used for those whom the researcher could not have face to face
interview and my e-letter was sent to them by means of their colleagues.
The text of interview questions and answers given by all the twenty interviewees is found in
appendix 5 of this dissertation. Classification and analysis of the views have been presented in
section 4-3.

CHAPTER 4: DATA COLLECTIONS AND FINDINGS
4-1: Decision Making Aspects/Factors for Prioritisation and Approval of Renewable
Energy Projects
4-1-1: Step One - Adopting Items from Each Reference Reviewed
The following are the preliminary selected items for the thesis-related decision-making that have
been investigated from the literature review.
Reference 1 of 23 (IEA, 2014) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20 Items
Reference 2 of 23 (Menichetti, 2010) -------------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Items
Reference 3 of 23 (Alzeyoudi, 2011) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 Items
Reference 4 of 23 (Wan and Parsons, 1993) ------------------------------------------------------------ 22 Items
Reference 5 of 23 (Critical Thinking Books & Software, 1998) --------------------------------------- 7 Items
Reference 6 of 23 (Rayagra, 2001) ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 16 Items
Reference 7 of 23 (Cullen, 2009) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Items
Reference 8 of 23 (Tubesing, 2009) ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Items
Reference 9 of 23 (Economic Planning for Commercial Renewable Energy Projects, 2004) --- 14 Items
Reference 10 of 23 (Atabi, 2004) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5 Items
Reference 11 of 23 (Silva, 2008) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8 Items
Reference 12 of 23 (Oren, 2009) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 Items
Reference 13 of 23 (Jebaraj and Iniyanb, 2004) -------------------------------------------------------- 23 Items
Reference 14 of 23 (Brohmann, et al., 2007) ----------------------------------------------------------- 23 Items
Reference 15 of 23 (Stephenson, et al., 2009) ---------------------------------------------------------- 16 Items
Reference 16 of 23 (Farhar, et al., 2010) ---------------------------------------------------------------- 18 Items
Reference 17 of 23 (Palmas, et al., 2010) ----------------------------------------------------------------- 4 Items
Reference 18 of 23 (Jamali, 2010) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4 Items
Reference 19 of 23 (USA Department of Energy, 2012) ----------------------------------------------- 7 Items
Reference 20 of 23 (Theodorou, et al., 2011) ------------------------------------------------------------ 4 Items
Reference 21 of 23 (Polatidis, Haralambopoulos, et al., 2006) ---------------------------------------- 6 Items
Reference 22 of 23 (Meredith and Mantel, 2009) ------------------------------------------------------ 31 Items
Reference 23 of 23 (Kula, 2013) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Items

SUM --------------------------------- 270 Items
As a result of fareful scrutinising, the item as listed below have been adopted for the semi-short
list of base context items.
Reference 1 of 23 (IEA, 2014)
1- Political / Policy and Regulatory: Credibility and Durability of Energy Policy
Framework or Support Schemes (Implied in Factors: 3, 4)
2- Political / Policy and Regulatory: Misalignment with Eventual Climate or
Environmental Policies, e.g. carbon pricing or new emission standards (Implied in
Factor 14)
3- Political / Policy and Regulatory: Consistency and Stability of the Legal or Tax
Basis for Investment (Implied in Factor 28)
4- Political / Policy and Regulatory: Complexity of the Business Environment (e.g.
for permitting, licensing, local content) and Transparency of Business Dealings
(Implied in Factors: 28, 29, 45)
5- Economic / Market: End-User Prices Held below Costs of Production
(Subsidies) (Implied in Factor 8)
6- Economic / Market: Shifts in Absolute or Relative Prices that Undermine
Revenues (Implied in Factor 7)
7- Economic / Macro-economic: Unstable or Inflationary Economic Environment
(Implied in Factor 6)
8- Economic / Macro-economic: Abrupt Fluctuations in Exchange Rates,
especially where costs/repayments and revenues are in different currencies (Implied in
Factors: 6, 7)
9- Economic / Financial: Rise in Interest Rates, where debt is based on floating rates
or needs to be re-financed (Implied in Factor 6)
10- Project-Specific / Construction and costs: Project Completion Delays (Implied in
Factor 11)
11- Project-Specific / Construction and costs: Low Built Quality (Implied in Factor 15)
12- Project-Specific / Construction and costs: Cost Inflation or Overruns (Implied in
Factor 6)
13- Project-Specific / Partners: Ability of Off-Takers to Meet their Obligation to
Pay for the Produced Energy (Implied in Factor 7)

14- Project-Specific / Partners: Mismatch of Incentives and Time Horizons, e.g.
between tenants and property owners for a building efficiency investment (Implied in
Factors: 12, 13)
15- Project-Specific / Human resources: Availability of Necessary Expertise and
Qualified Labor (Implied in Factors: 32, 34, 35, 37)
16- Project-Specific / Environmental and social: Possible Climate Impacts, e.g. water
scarcity (Implied in Factor 28)
17- Project-Specific / Environmental and social: Local Pollution or other
Environmental Degradation (Implied in Factor 15)
18- Project-Specific / Operation: Geological Risk, e.g. smaller or more challenging
resources than anticipated (for upstream projects) (Implied in Factor 28)
19- Project-Specific / Technological: Lower-than-Expected Performance (e.g. in
terms of efficiency, reliability) of Chosen Technologies (Implied in Factor 24)
20- Project-Specific / Measurement (for efficiency projects): Identification and
Quantification of the Savings Attributable to the Efficiency Investment (Implied
in Factors: 2, 6)
Reference 2 of 23 (Menichetti, 2010)
1. Confidence in Market Efficiency (Implied in Factor 7)
2. Confidence in Technology Adequacy (Implied in Factors: 24, 25, 26)
3. Technological Risk Seeking Attitude (Implied in Factors: 24, 25, 26)
4. Perceived Importance of the Policy Type (Implied in Factors: 3, 4)
5. Perceived Importance of Support Level (Implied in Factors: 8, 28, 29)
6. Perceived Importance of Support Duration (Implied in Factors: 7, 8)
7. Perceived Importance of the Length of the Administrative Process (Implied in
Factors: 11, 12, 13, 28, 29)
8. Investor’s Experience (Implied in Factor 40)
9. RE Share in the Investment Portfolio (Implied in Factors: 40, 43)
10. Investment Performance (Implied in Factors: 10, 40, 43)
Reference 3 of 23 (Alzeyoudi, 2011)

1. Evolved Procedures for Minimizing Classic Environmental Problems such as
Local Emission of Toxic Pollutants (Implied in Factor 15)
2. Association with the Global Scenarios and not Be Merely Region Centric
(Implied in Factors: 29, 46)
3. Capabilities Level for Achieving the Targets (Implied in Factors: 3, 4)
4. Capabilities Level for the Gradual Transformation (Implied in Factors: 14, 21, 22, 43, 44)
5. Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Technological Aspects (Implied in Factors:
24, 25, 30, 31)
6. Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Man Power Aspects (Implied in Factors: 32,
33, 34, 35, 36, 37)
7. Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Infrastructure Aspects (Implied in
Factors: 1, 2, 10, 28, 29, 38, 39, 45)
8. Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Social Aspects (Implied in Factors: 4, 42, 43,
44, 46)
9. Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Environmental Aspects (Implied in
Factors: 14, 15)
Reference 4 of 23 (Wan and Parsons, 1993)
1. Interface Factor: Harmonics (Implied in Factors: 3, 4, 46)
2. Interface Factor: Personnel Safety (Implied in Factor 5)
3. Interface Factor: System Protection (Implied in Factors: 24, 25)
4. Operating Factor: Generation Control, Load Following, Unit Commitment,
Reserve Requirement, and System Voltage Regulation (Implied in Factors: 23, 24, 25, 26,
30, 31)
5. Operating Factor: Reliability Level of System Performance (Implied in Factors: 24, 25)
6. Planning Factor: Capacity Expansion (Implied in Factor 26)
7. Planning Factor: Integrated Resource Planning (Implied in Factors: 14, 21, 22)
8. Planning Factor: Accurate Planning Models (Implied in Factors: 23, 24, 25, 46)
9. Economic Factor: The Cost of Intermittent Renewable Technologies (Implied in
Factors: 6, 7, 21)
10. Economic Factor: Transmission Costs (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
11. Institutional Factor: Experience (Implied in Factors: 38, 39, 40)

12. Institutional Factor: Information (e.g. unawareness of recent technology and
performance improvements of intermittent renewable generations as well as the
uncertainty of RE technologies) (Implied in Factors: 41, 42)
13. Institutional Factor: Operating Flexibility (Implied in Factors: 23, 24, 25)
14. Regulatory Factor: Rate-Making Processes Reflecting the Operating
Characteristics and Attributes of Renewable Energy Systems (Implied in Factors: 24,
26)
15. Technical Factor: Comprehensive Models Capable of Evaluating Renewable
Energy Technologies (Implied in Factors: 2, 14, 22)
16. Technical Factor: Necessary Information or Adequate Analytic Tools to Use It
17. Technical Factor: Planning Tools to Evaluate Properly the Benefit and Cost; as
well as Impact of Intermittent Renewable Technologies that Has Hampered
Some Efforts (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 21)
18. Technical Factor: Availability of a Uniform Planning Methodology to Account
for the Stochastic Nature of the Intermittent Renewable Resources (Implied in
Factors: 2, 22)
19. Technical Factor: Availability of Input Data (i.e. long-term, site-specific wind
resource and solar radiation data that enable utilities to conduct a detailed analysis
of the renewable energy generation) (Implied in Factors: 1, 2, 22)
20. Technical Factor: Resource Assessment Results in order to Evaluate the
Potential Contributions and Design a Development Strategy (Implied in Factors: 1, 2,
22)
21. Technical Factor: The Quality of Transmission and Distribution System (Implied
in Factors: 24, 25)
22. Technical Factor: The Cost of Transmission and Distribution System (Implied in
Factors: 6, 7, 21)
Reference 5 of 23 (Critical Thinking Books & Software, 1998)
1. Abundance/Renewability (Implied in Factors: 1, 2)
2. Accessibility (Implied in Factor 22)
3. Cost of Production (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
4. Cost to Consumers (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
5. Safety (Implied in Factor 5)
6. Environmental Impact (Implied in Factors: 14, 15)

7. Ease of Conversion (Implied in Factors: 22, 25, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34)
Reference 6 of 23 (Rayagra, 2001)
1. Social aspects: Health and Safety (e.g. what steps can be taken to prevent
accidents, improve working conditions, monitor work-related illnesses, and foster
health promotion measures) (Implied in Factor 5)
2. Social aspects: Staff (e.g. can the project is built under conditions that are fair to
employees?) (Implied in Factors: 25, 32, 33, 34)
3. Social aspects: Community (e.g. how does the project integrate with local needs?
Is there dialogue with stakeholders? Can staff get involved with local initiatives?)
4. Social aspects: Equity and Social Opportunity (e.g. are there opportunities for
local employment? Is the employee profile compatible with the social mix of the
community? Are different religious beliefs respected?) (Implied in Factors: 28, 43, 44, 46)
5. Social aspects: Amenity (e.g. does the project provide an amenity that improves
the quality of life for staff and the local community?) (Implied in Factors: 43, 44, 46)
6. Economic aspects: Corporate Viability (e.g. can sufficient profitability be
generated while delivering the appropriate quality of service?) (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
7. Economic aspects: Legal Compliance (e.g. have the implications of failure to
comply with legal requirements been evaluated? Are sufficient financial and
human resources available to deal with potential legal actions and their
consequences?) (Implied in Factors: 28, 29)
8. Economic aspects: Investment (e.g. can the project attract inward investment and
retain shareholders? Has the need to invest in pension schemes and training been
taken into account?) (Implied in Factor 10)
9. Economic aspects: Risk Assessment (e.g. have the risks associated with the
selection and viability of a site been assessed? Have pollution risks been
evaluated? Has adequate insurance cover been secured? In the event of adverse
publicity, can the cost of damage to reputation be sustained?) (Implied in Factors: 7, 15, 43,
44, 46)
10. Economic aspects: Initial Project Viability (e.g. can buildable projects be
developed to meet the client’s requirements, within accurate cost and time
parameters, with good productivity rates while avoiding disruption and disputes?)
(Implied in Factors: 7, 11, 12, 13)
11. Economic aspects: Ongoing Project Viability (e.g. can client satisfaction be
delivered on an ongoing basis? Are whole life costing principles being used to
obtain accurate future running cost predictions?) (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)

12. Economic aspects: Marketing Opportunities (e.g. how can policies and
achievements be successfully publicized, with a view to generating future work
from previous successes?) (Implied in Factors: 6, 40, 41, 42, 46)
13. Environmental aspects: Energy Consumption (e.g. what steps can be taken to
minimize energy use during construction and during normal operations? Is
embodied energy taken into account in materials selection?) (Implied in Factors: 16, 17)
14. Environmental aspects: Energy Sources (e.g. can renewable sources be used?
Does the design ensure that future owners can change their energy sources easily?)
15. Environmental aspects: Waste (e.g. can waste be minimized through good
specification, efficiency in use, re-use and recycling?) (Implied in Factor 15)
16. Environmental aspects: Pollution (e.g. have steps been taken to minimize
pollution to air, water courses and land?) (Implied in Factor 15)
Reference 7 of 23 (Cullen, 2009)
1. Subsidies (Production subsidies for renewable energy _ Wind energy in particular
has taken advantage of federal subsidies in the Texas electricity grid) (Implied in Factor
8)
2. Potential Environmental Regulations (the effectiveness of potential
environmental regulations to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the electricity
producers _ dynamic production decisions) (Implied in Factor 15)
3. The Growth of Local Economies (which were the target of large government
expenditures) (Implied in Factors: 4, 46)
4. Revenues (Implied in Factor 7)
5. Wind Speed and Duration (Implied in Factor 2)
6. Low Marginal Costs of Production in Wind Farms (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
7. High Marginal Cost of Fossil Fuel Generators (Implied in Factors: 6, 9, 21)
8. Emission Rates of Fossil Fuel Generators (Implied in Factor 15)
9. Extent of the Reduction in Pollution (Implied in Factor 15)
10. Technology Advancements in Wind Turbines (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 10, 26)
Reference 8 of 23 (Tubesing, 2009)

1. Electricity Technological Concerns (e.g. balance between source and load power
magnitude, real or active power, reactive or apparent power, apparent power,
voltage, current, power quality _ frequency and power factor, and associated
phase angle) (Implied in Factors: 24, 25)
2. Storing Energy (Implied in Factors: 24, 25)
Reference 9 of 23 (Economic Planning for Commercial Renewable Energy Projects, 2004)
1. General Project Information _ Rated Capacity, Capacity factor (Implied in Factor 2)
2. General Project Information _ Inflation (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
3. General Project Information _ Start Year, Project Lifetime (Implied in Factor 11)
4. Revenue _ Cash Flows (Implied in Factor 7)
5. Energy Sales Income (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
6. Fuel or Energy Displacement Savings (Implied in Factors: 16, 22)
7. Ancillary Products or Benefits (Implied in Factors: 6, 26)
8. Cost Recovery _ Depreciation or Expensing (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
9. Grants and Incentives (Implied in Factor 8)
10. Equipment Costs including Installation and Site Preparation (Implied in Factor 10)
11. Balance of System (BOS) Costs including all Non-Equipment Capital Costs
such as Interconnection and Civil Works (Implied in Factor 10)
12. Developer Soft Costs _ Environmental Studies (Implied in Factors: 14, 15)
13. Recurrent Costs such as Equipment Replacement (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 27)
14. Operation and Maintenance (fixed, variable, or a combination of the two)
(Implied in Factors: 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37)
Reference 10 of 23 (Atabi, 2004)
1. Subsidy (In developing countries) (Implied in Factor 8)
2. Adoption of Implementation Strategies (that will support sustainable development
and overcoming barriers that hinder expansion of Renewable Energy Technologies _
RETs) (Implied in Factors: 28, 29)
3. Environmental Policy for Promotion of RETs (in order to define its role in
revitalization of their economies) (Implied in Factors: 4, 46)

4. Policy Incentives for Promotion of RETs (Implied in Factors: 4, 46)
5. An Organisational Framework (Implied in Factor 3)
Reference 11 of 23 (Silva, 2008)
1. Climate Change (The increasing emission of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) into the
Earth’s environment) (Implied in Factor 15)
2. Rising Prices of Fossil Fuels (Implied in Factors: 9, 21)
3. Search for Security of Supply (Implied in Factors: 22, 38, 39, 46)
4. Self-Sufficiency (Implied in Factors: 24, 25, 46)
5. Possibility to Use Local Resources (Implied in Factors: 22, 28,46)
6. Economic Perspective (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 10)
7. Improved Environmental Benefits (Implied in Factors: 14, 15)
8. National Government Support (Implied in Factors: 4, 8)
Reference 12 of 23 (Oren, 2009)
1. Carrots (in the form of subsidies, tax credits, and other incentives) (Implied in Factors: 4, 8)
2. Sticks (in the form of mandates and standards) (Implied in Factor 4)
3. Innovation in New Energy Technologies and Services (Implied in Factors: 16, 17, 27)
4. Innovation in Existing Energy Technologies and Services (Implied in Factors: 16, 17, 18,
19, 20, 27)
5. Local Air Pollution (Implied in Factor 15)
6. Impact of Energy Use on Human Health and Climate System (Implied in Factors: 5, 15)
7. Energy Security and Independence (Implied in Factors: 22, 46)
8. Economic Concerns (high petroleum and natural gas prices) (Implied in Factor 9)
9. Political Feasibility Considerations (Implied in Factors: 4, 46)
Reference 13 of 23 (Jebaraj and Iniyanb, 2004)

1. High Dependence on Traditional Sources of Energy (which supply more than 90%
of total energy used causing rapid deforestation, decreasing soil fertility, etc.) (Implied in
Factors: 9, 15, 22)
2. Per Capita Energy Consumption (which has been rising steadily for the last few
decades) (Implied in Factors: 16, 18, 19, 20)
3. Demand for Energy (Implied in Factors: 2, 18, 19, 20)
4. Decentralized Energy Technologies based on Local Resources (Implied in Factors: 4,
22, 46)
5. Gross Income (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
6. Gross Output (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
7. Profit (Implied in Factor 6)
8. Energy Quantity (Implied in Factor 2)
9. GNP/Energy Ratio (Implied in Factor 46)
10. Energy Performance (Implied in Factors: 16, 17)
11. Energy Production (Implied in Factors: 22, 46)
12. Technology (Implied in Factors: 16, 17)
13. Efficiency (Implied in Factors: 16, 17)
14. Supply (Implied in Factor 2)
15. Demand (Implied in Factors: 21, 22)
16. Employment (Implied in Factors: 34, 37)
17. Resource Availability (Implied in Factor 22)
18. Life Span of the System (Implied in Factor 27)
19. Reliability (Implied in Factor 25)
20. Intermittent Supply (Implied in Factor 22)
21. Site Selection (Implied in Factor 28)
22. Investment (Implied in Factor 10)
23. Social Acceptance (Implied in Factor 44)
Reference 14 of 23 (Brohmann, et al., 2007)

1. Societal Acceptance (in terms of different technologies, contexts refers to the historical,
cultural, institutional, social, economic, material and geographical settings that surround, shape and are shaped
by the technology at the local and at the national level and stakeholder involvement approaches)
2. Techno-Economic Successfulness (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 16, 31)
3. Climate Change (Implied in Factor 15)
4. Technology (the transfer of these local experiences from one site to another is not
unproblematic) (Implied in Factor 40)
5. Scientific and Industry Expertise (Implied in Factors: 32, 34, 35, 37)
6. Cultural Meaning attached to the Technology (Implied in Factors: 43, 44)
7. Public Awareness and Participation Needed (Implied in Factors: 44, 46)
8. Transition and Transaction Costs (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
9. Political and Policy Issues _ Types of Government Policies on New Energy
Technologies and Related Topics (Implied in Factor 4)
10. Political and Policy Issues _ Stability of National Policy (Implied in Factor 4)
11. Political and Policy Issues _ Policy Culture and Administrative Procedures
12. Political and Policy Issues _ Distribution of Power (national and local level) (Implied in
Factors: 4, 44, 46)
13. Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Availability and Perception of
Natural Sources (Implied in Factors: 2, 22)
14. Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Interest in Employment
Opportunities and Regional Economic Development (Implied in Factors: 44, 46)
15. Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Perception of Foreign Investment
16. Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Importance of Energy
Independence (Implied in Factors: 24, 25, 46)
17. Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Energy Prices; Technologies and
other Input Prices, Costs (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 9)
18. Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Competing Technologies and
Industries (Implied in Factors: 30, 31)
19. Cultural Factors _ Environmental Awareness (Implied in Factors: 14, 15)
20. Cultural Factors _ Historical Experiences (Implied in Factor 40)

21. Cultural Factors _ Attitudes to New Technologies (Implied in Factors: 27, 30, 31)
22. Geographic Factors _ Climate (Implied in Factor 15)
23. Geographic Factors _ Availability of Suitable Locations (Implied in Factor 28)
Reference 15 of 23 (Stephenson, et al., 2009)
1. Social Resistance (public perceptions of wind farms in New Zealand) (Implied in Factor 28)
2. Political and Institutional _ Energy Policy Opinion (Implied in Factors: 3, 4)
3. Political and Institutional _ Political Self-Efficacy (Implied in Factor 4)
4. Political and Institutional _ Institutional Capacity (Implied in Factor 28)
5. Political and Institutional _ National Good/Security of Supply (Implied in Factors: 22, 24,
25, 46)
6. Political and Institutional _ Public Participation and Consultation (Implied in Factor
28)
7. Political and Institutional _ Perception of Developer (Implied in Factors: 10, 28, 29)
8. Socio-Economic _ Shareholding (Implied in Factor 29)
9. Socio-Economic _ Economic Effect; Property Values (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 10)
10. Socio-Economic _ Social Impact (Implied in Factors: 43, 44)
11. Social and Communicative _ Social Influence Processes (media, social networks,
trust) (Implied in Factors: 43, 44)
12. Symbolic and Ideological _ Representations (of wind turbines) (Implied in Factors: 28, 29)
13. Local _ Place and Identity Processes (Implied in Factor 28)
14. Local _ Local or Community Benefit and Control (Implied in Factor 6)
15. Personal _ Previous Experience and Knowledge (Implied in Factor 40)
16. Environmental _ Local Environment (Implied in Factor 15)
Reference 16 of 23 (Farhar, et al., 2010)
1. Economic (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 10)
2. Environmental (Implied in Factor 15)
3. Technological (e.g. new transmission lines are needed in areas where they have
never been located to bring CSP electricity to demand centres.) (Implied in Factor 28)

4. Social-psychological (Implied in Factors: 43, 44)
5. Regulatory (Implied in Factors: 28, 29)
6. Job Creation (Implied in Factor 46)
7. Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Implied in Factor 15)
8. Climate Change (Implied in Factor 15)
9. Security and Diversity of Power Supplies (Implied in Factor 22)
10. Reducing Dependence on Imported Energy (Implied in Factor 22)
11. Community Pride (positive effects on community identity) (Implied in Factors: 43, 44, 46)
12. Not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) Syndrome (Implied in Factor 28)
13. Land-Use (Implied in Factor 28)
14. Social Acceptance (of utility-scale renewable energy projects) (Implied in Factors: 28, 44)
15. Systematic Knowledge (Implied in Factors: 33, 36, 41, 42)
16. Appearance and Size of Geographic Footprints (to influence on public
acceptance) (Implied in Factors: 28, 43, 44)
17. Well Understanding by Stakeholders and the Public (Implied in Factors: 28, 44)
18. Fully Understanding by Decision Makers (An integrative decision role seems
lacking) (Implied in Factors: 28, 43)
Reference 17 of 23 (Palmas, et al., 2010)
1. Bio-Energy Potential (Implied in Factors: 1, 22)
2. Environmental Criteria (the highest energy potential and the least environmental
impacts) (Implied in Factors: 14, 15)
3. Land Use (the best locations) (Implied in Factor 28)
4. Reduction of the Oil Consumption (Implied in Factors: 9, 21)
Reference 18 of 23 (Jamali, 2010)
1. Policies, Processes, and Structures Consistent across Cultures (Global
CSR/Advantage) (Implied in Factors: 43, 44)

2. High Coordination and Control Necessary (Local CSR/Disadvantage) (Implied in
Factor 28)
3. Benefits Anticipated/Derived (Implied in Factor 6)
4. Resource Availability (Implied in Factors: 1, 22)
Reference 19 of 23 (USA Department of Energy, 2012)
1. Potential for Solar Development (A key component of converting idle municipal
or private property into a solar revenue generator is to conduct an assessment of
these properties to determine their potential for solar development.) (Implied in Factor 22)
2. In-House Expertise (Implied in Factors: 34, 37)
3. Policy or Legal Barriers (Implied in Factor 28)
4. Physical Characteristics (Site Slope/Size/Shape/Soil, Weathering and Local
Climate, Solar Irradiance, Shading) (Implied in Factor 28)
5. Planning Concerns (Zoning and Permitting, Future or Alternative Use) (Implied in
Factors: 28, 45)
6. Infrastructure Concerns (Proximity to Grid Infrastructure, Site Access, Ensure
Security) (Implied in Factor 28)
7. Environmental Concerns (Impact on Natural or Cultural Resources, Impact on
Environment/Wildlife/Habitat) (Implied in Factor 15)
Reference 20 of 23 (Theodorou, et al., 2011)
1. Compatibility with Political, Legislative and Administrative Situation
(willingness, level of cooperation of governmental departments and political
parties) (Implied in Factor 28)
2. Consistency with the Local Technical and Economic Condition, which depends
on the local capacity of managing the innovation both at technical and financial
levels (availability of technology, cost factors, maturity) (Implied in Factor 28)
3. Consistency with Energy Demand Predictions (projection of final energy
consumption may affect greatly the decision outcome since it will affect the
aggressiveness of the support schemes) (Implied in Factors: 2, 22, 28)
4. Compatibility with the Existing Environmental and Ecological Constraints
(International agreements can shape the final classification of the alternatives)

Reference 21 of 23 (Polatidis, Haralambopoulos, et al., 2006)
1. Environmental Benefits (Contribution to Local Air Pollution, Acid Rain
Formulation, Global Warming) (Implied in Factor 15)
2. Local Impacts (Land Use, Landscape _ Aesthetics, Rural Lifestyle, Noise,
Ecosystem Disturbineces) (Implied in Factors: 28, 43, 44)
3. Spatial Distribution of Costs and Benefits (Benefits are distributed to the wider
public, Costs are localized to the area) (Implied in Factors: 6, 43, 44)
4. Temporal Distribution of Costs and Benefits (Benefits on a long-term basis,
Costs on a short-term basis) (Implied in Factors: 6, 7, 43, 44)
5. Public Character of Energy Decision Making (Sustainability, Complexity,
Irreversibility, Democracy) (Implied in Factors: 43, 44)
6. Multiple Decision Criteria (Economic, Resource, Technological, Environmental,
Social) (Implied in Factors: 1, 2, 6, 7, 10, 14, 15, 25, 28, 43, 44)
Reference 22 of 23 (Meredith and Mantel, 2009)
1. Production Factor – Time until Ready to Install (Implied in Factor 11)
2. Production Factor – Learning Curve; Time until Operating as Desired (Implied in
Factors: 12, 13)
3. Production Factor – Effects on Waste and Rejects (Implied in Factor 15)
4. Production Factor – Energy Requirements (Implied in Factors: 2, 22)
5. Production Factor – Facility and Other Equipment Requirements (Implied in Factor
28)
6. Production Factor – Safety of Process (Implied in Factor 5)
7. Production Factor – Other Appliances of Technology (Implied in Factor 28)
8. Production Factor – Change in Cost to Produce a Unit Output (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
9. Production Factor – Change in Raw Material Usage (Implied in Factors: 22, 46)
10. Production Factor – Availability of Raw Materials (Implied in Factor 22)
11. Production Factor – Required Development Time (Implied in Factors: 11, 12, 13)
12. Production Factor – Required Development Cost (Implied in Factor 10)
13. Production Factor – Impact on Current Suppliers (Implied in Factors: 25, 44)

14. Production Factor – Change in Manufacturing or Service Operations
Resulting from the Project (Implied in Factors: 24, 25)
15. Financial Factor – Profitability, Net Present Value of the Investment and
Expected Return of Investment (Implied in Factors: 6, 7)
16. Financial Factor – Payout Period (Implied in Factor 7)
17. Financial Factor – Cash Requirements (Implied in Factor 10)
18. Financial Factor – Time until Break-Even (Implied in Factors: 7, 12, 13)
19. Financial Factor – Size of Investment Required (Implied in Factor 10)
20. Personal Factor – Training Requirements (Need to develop/train employees)
21. Personal Factor – Labor Skill Requirements (Implied in Factors: 32, 35)
22. Personal Factor – Availability of Required Labor Skills (Implied in Factors: 34, 37)
23. Personal Factor – Inter- and Intra-Group Communication Requirements
24. Personal Factor – Impact on Working Conditions (Change in workforce size or
composition) (Implied in Factors: 24, 25, 26, 43)
25. Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Meet Government Safety Standards
26. Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Meet Government Environmental
Standards (Implied in Factors: 4, 15)
27. Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Impact on Information System
28. Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Patent and Trade Section
Protection (Implied in Factor 3)
29. Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Degree to which We Understand
New Technology (Implied in Factors: 24, 25)
30. Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Managerial capacity to Direct and
Control New Process (Implied in Factors: 24, 25)
31. Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Strategic Fit (Implied in Factors: 3, 4)
Reference 23 of 23 (Kula, 2013)
1. Sociocultural – Leadership, Problem Solving, Teamwork, Negotiation, Politics

2. Technical – Scope, WBS, Schedules, Resource Allocation, Baseline Budgets,
Status Reports (Implied in Factors: 1, 2, 3, 10, 11, 22)
4-1-2: Step Two - Merging the 270 Adopted Items to Produce the Final List
The main purpose of adopting all 270 items taken out of the selected 23 references containing
necessary contents was to produce a final list of decision making aspects and factors as rich yet
concise as possible. The perceived concept drawn from each factor might contain different
characteristics or features in parallel to different impact degrees. Each aspect or factor in turn has
either positive or negative influence or impact on the decision-making process relevant to the
subject of this research. Besides, the degree of each relationship had its own magnitude/extent, as
well. As an instance, one adopted factor might be 40% compatible with one final aspect/factor in
the resulting list whereas 90% compatible with another one. For example:
Reference 2 / Factor 2 [R.2 (2)]: Confidence in Technology Adequacy
(Implied in Factors: 24 [Negative Factor 6 / N-6], 25 [Negative Factor 7 / N-7], 26 [Positive Factor 19 / P-19])
In this example, the second factor adopted from the second reference (i.e. Menichetti, 2010) has
been perceived to be related to factors 24 – with perceived negative influence -, 25 – again with
perceived negative influence -, and finally 26 – in contrast; with perceived positive influence – on
the subject of this research. Moreover, the degree or extent of conceptual participation can be
considered 40%, 80%, and 30% respectively.

01. Potential Renewable Energy Resources
1. (01-1) Type of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-1)FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
Numberofbeingmentioned
inthereferences
Adopted Items Taken out of the
References
R.x (y) refers to the Reference number (subnumber)
1
P
P-1
1 R.3 (7) Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Infrastructure Aspects
2
R.4 (19) Technical Factor: Availability of Input Data (i.e. long-term, site-specific
wind resource and solar radiation data that enable utilities to conduct a detailed
analysis of the renewable energy generation)
3
R.4 (20) Technical Factor: Resource Assessment Results in order to Evaluate the
Potential Contributions and Design a Development Strategy
4 R.5 (1) Abundance/Renewability
5 R.17 (1) Bio-Energy Potential
6 R.18 (4) Resource Availability
7
R.21 (6) Multiple Decision Criteria (Economic, Resource, Technological,
Environmental, Social)
8
R.23 (2) Technical – Scope, WBS, Schedules, Resource Allocation, Baseline
Budgets, Status Reports
2. (01-2) Amount of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-2)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
Adopted Items Taken out of the References
2
P
P-2
1
R.1 (20) Project-Specific / Measurement (for efficiency projects): Identification and
Quantification of the Savings Attributable to the Efficiency Investment
3
R.4 (15) Technical Factor: Comprehensive Models Capable of Evaluating Renewable
Energy Technologies
4
R.4 (18) Technical Factor: Availability of a Uniform Planning Methodology to
Account for the Stochastic Nature of the Intermittent Renewable Resources
5
R.4 (19) Technical Factor: Availability of Input Data (i.e. long-term, site-specific wind
resource and solar radiation data that enable utilities to conduct a detailed analysis of
the renewable energy generation)
6
7 R.5 (1) Abundance/Renewability

8 R.7 (5) Wind Speed and Duration
9 R.9 (1) General Project Information _ Rated Capacity, Capacity factor
10 R.13 (3) Demand for Energy
11 R.13 (8) Energy Quantity
12 R.13 (14) Supply
13
R.14 (13) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Availability and Perception of
Natural Sources
14
R.20 (3) Consistency with Energy Demand Predictions (projection of final energy
aggressiveness of the support schemes)
15
16 R.22 (4) Production Factor – Energy Requirements
17
R.23 (2) Technical – Scope, WBS, Schedules, Resource Allocation, Baseline Budgets,
Status Reports
02. The Degree of Support from the Companies' Policy and Strategy
3. (02-1) Support from Company's Policy (P-3)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
3
P
P-3
1
R.1 (1) Political / Policy and Regulatory: Credibility and Durability of Energy Policy
Framework or Support Schemes
2 R.2 (4) Perceived Importance of the Policy Type
3 R.3 (3) Capabilities Level for Achieving the Targets
4 R.4 (1) Interface Factor: Harmonics
5 R.10 (5) An Organisational Framework
6 R.15 (2) Political and Institutional _ Energy Policy Opinion
7
R.22 (28) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Patent and Trade Section
Protection
8 R.22 (31) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Strategic Fit
9
Status Reports
4. (02-2) Support from National Policy (P-4)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
4
P
P-4
1
R.1 (1) Political / Policy and Regulatory: Credibility and Durability of Energy Policy
Framework or Support Schemes
2 R.2 (4) Perceived Importance of the Policy Type
3 R.3 (3) Capabilities Level for Achieving the Targets
4 R.3 (8) Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Social Aspects
6
R.7 (3) The Growth of Local Economies (which were the target of large government
expenditures)
7
R.10 (3) Environmental Policy for Promotion of RETs (in order to define its role in
revitalization of their economies)
8 R.10 (4) Policy Incentives for Promotion of RETs
9 R.11 (8) National Government Support
10 R.12 (1) Carrots (in the form of subsidies, tax credits, and other incentives)
11 R.12 (2) Sticks (in the form of mandates and standards)
12 R.12 (9) Political Feasibility Considerations
13 R.13 (4) Decentralized Energy Technologies based on Local Resources
14
R.14 (9) Political and Policy Issues _ Types of Government Policies on New Energy
Technologies and Related Topics
15 R.14 (10) Political and Policy Issues _ Stability of National Policy
16 R.14 (11) Political and Policy Issues _ Policy Culture and Administrative Procedures
17 R.14 (12) Political and Policy Issues _ Distribution of Power (national and local level)
18 R.15 (2) Political and Institutional _ Energy Policy Opinion
19 R.15 (3) Political and Institutional _ Political Self-Efficacy
20
R.22 (25) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Meet Government Safety
Standards
21
R.22 (26) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Meet Government
Environmental Standards
22 R.22 (31) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Strategic Fit
03. Impact on Safety Issues
5. (03) Decrease of the Safety Risk Intensity (P-5)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
5
P
P-5
1 R.4 (2) Interface Factor: Personnel Safety
2 R.5 (5) Safety
3
R.6 (1) Social aspects: Health and Safety (e.g. what steps can be taken to prevent
accidents, improve working conditions, monitor work-related illnesses, and foster
health promotion measures)
4 R.12 (6) Impact of Energy Use on Human Health and Climate System
5 R.22 (6) Production Factor – Safety of Process
6
R.22 (25) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Meet Government Safety
Standards
04. Financial and Economic Parameters
6. (04-1) Benefit Amount (+)
(P-6)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
6
P
P-6
1 R.1 (7) Economic / Macro-economic: Unstable or Inflationary Economic Environment
2
R.1 (8) Economic / Macro-economic: Abrupt Fluctuations in Exchange Rates,
especially where costs/repayments and revenues are in different currencies
3
R.1 (9) Economic / Financial: Rise in Interest Rates, where debt is based on floating
rates or needs to be re-financed
4 R.1 (12) Project-Specific / Construction and costs: Cost Inflation or Overruns
5
R.1 (20) Project-Specific / Measurement (for efficiency projects): Identification and
Quantification of the Savings Attributable to the Efficiency Investment
6 R.4 (9) Economic Factor: The Cost of Intermittent Renewable Technologies
7 R.4 (10) Economic Factor: Transmission Costs
8
R.4 (17) Technical Factor: Planning Tools to Evaluate Properly the Benefit and Cost;
as well as Impact of Intermittent Renewable Technologies that Has Hampered Some
Efforts
9 R.4 (22) Technical Factor: The Cost of Transmission and Distribution System
10 R.5 (3) Cost of Production
11 R.5 (4) Cost to Consumers

12
R.6 (6) Economic aspects: Corporate Viability (e.g. can sufficient profitability be
generated while delivering the appropriate quality of service?)
13
R.6 (11) Economic aspects: Ongoing Project Viability (e.g. can client satisfaction be
delivered on an ongoing basis? Are whole life costing principles being used to obtain
accurate future running cost predictions?)
14
R.6 (12) Economic aspects: Marketing Opportunities (e.g. how can policies and
achievements be successfully publicized, with a view to generating future work from
previous successes?)
15 R.7 (6) Low Marginal Costs of Production in Wind Farms
16 R.7 (7) High Marginal Cost of Fossil Fuel Generators
17 R.7 (10) Technology Advancements in Wind Turbines
18 R.9 (2) General Project Information _ Inflation
19 R.9 (5) Energy Sales Income
20 R.9 (7) Ancillary Products or Benefits
21 R.9 (8) Cost Recovery _ Depreciation or Expensing
22 R.9 (13) Recurrent Costs such as Equipment Replacement
23 R.11 (6) Economic Perspective
24 R.13 (5) Gross Income
25 R.13 (6) Gross Output
26 R.13 (7) Profit
27 R.14 (2) Techno-Economic Successfulness
28 R.14 (8) Transition and Transaction Costs
29
R.14 (17) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Energy Prices; Technologies
and other Input Prices, Costs
30 R.15 (9) Socio-Economic _ Economic Effect; Property Values
31 R.15 (14) Local _ Local or Community Benefit and Control
32 R.16 (1) Economic
33 R.18 (3) Benefits Anticipated/Derived
34
R.21 (3) Spatial Distribution of Costs and Benefits (Benefits are distributed to the
wider public, Costs are localized to the area)
35
R.21 (4) Temporal Distribution of Costs and Benefits (Benefits on a long-term basis,
Costs on a short-term basis)
36
37 R.22 (8) Production Factor – Change in Cost to Produce a Unit Output
38
R.22 (15) Financial Factor – Profitability, Net Present Value of the Investment and
Expected Return of Investment
7. (04-2) Revenue (+)
(P-7)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
7
P
P-7
1
R.1 (6) Economic / Market: Shifts in Absolute or Relative Prices that Undermine
Revenues
2
R.1 (8) Economic / Macro-economic: Abrupt Fluctuations in Exchange Rates,
especially where costs/repayments and revenues are in different currencies
3
R.1 (13) Project-Specific / Partners: Ability of Off-Takers to Meet their Obligation to
Pay for the Produced Energy
4 R.2 (1) Confidence in Market Efficiency
5 R.2 (6) Perceived Importance of Support Duration
7 R.4 (10) Economic Factor: Transmission Costs
8
Efforts
10 R.5 (3) Cost of Production
11 R.5 (4) Cost to Consumers
12
R.6 (6) Economic aspects: Corporate Viability (e.g. can sufficient profitability be
generated while delivering the appropriate quality of service?)
13
R.6 (9) Economic aspects: Risk Assessment (e.g. have the risks associated with the
selection and viability of a site been assessed? Have pollution risks been evaluated?
Has adequate insurance cover been secured? In the event of adverse publicity, can the
cost of damage to reputation be sustained?)
14
R.6 (10) Economic aspects: Initial Project Viability (e.g. can buildable projects be
developed to meet the client’s requirements, within accurate cost and time parameters,
with good productivity rates while avoiding disruption and disputes?)
15
R.6 (11) Economic aspects: Ongoing Project Viability (e.g. can client satisfaction be
delivered on an ongoing basis? Are whole life costing principles being used to obtain
accurate future running cost predictions?)
16 R.7 (4) Revenues
17 R.7 (6) Low Marginal Costs of Production in Wind Farms
19 R.9 (2) General Project Information _ Inflation
20 R.9 (4) Revenue _ Cash Flows
21 R.9 (5) Energy Sales Income
22 R.9 (8) Cost Recovery _ Depreciation or Expensing
25 R.13 (5) Gross Income
26 R.13 (6) Gross Output

28 R.14 (8) Transition and Transaction Costs
29
32
33
34 R.22 (8) Production Factor – Change in Cost to Produce a Unit Output
35
R.22 (15) Financial Factor – Profitability, Net Present Value of the Investment and
Expected Return of Investment
36 R.22 (16) Financial Factor – Payout Period
37 R.22 (18) Financial Factor – Time until Break-Even
8. (04-3) Opportunities or Potentials for Using Governmental Subsidies (+)
(P-8)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
8
P
P-8
1
R.1 (5) Economic / Market: End-User Prices Held below Costs of Production
(Subsidies)
2 R.2 (5) Perceived Importance of Support Level
3 R.2 (6) Perceived Importance of Support Duration
4
R.6 (3) Social aspects: Community (e.g. how does the project integrate with local
needs? Is there dialogue with stakeholders? Can staff get involved with local
initiatives?)
5
R.7 (1) Subsidies (Production subsidies for renewable energy _ Wind energy in
particular has taken advantage of federal subsidies in the Texas electricity grid)
6 R.9 (9) Grants and Incentives
7 R.10 (1) Subsidy (In developing countries)
8 R.11 (8) National Government Support
9 R.12 (1) Carrots (in the form of subsidies, tax credits, and other incentives)
9. (04-4) Increase of Fossil Energy Resources Costs (+)
(P-9)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
9
P
P-9
2 R.11 (2) Rising Prices of Fossil Fuels
3 R.12 (8) Economic Concerns (high petroleum and natural gas prices)
4
R.13 (1) High Dependence on Traditional Sources of Energy (which supply more than
90% of total energy used causing rapid deforestation, decreasing soil fertility, etc.)
5
6 R.17 (4) Reduction of the Oil Consumption
10. (04-5) Investment Amount (-)
(N-1)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
10
N
N-1
1 R.2 (10) Investment Performance
3
R.6 (8) Economic aspects: Investment (e.g. can the project attract inward investment
and retain shareholders? Has the need to invest in pension schemes and training been
taken into account?)
5 R.9 (10) Equipment Costs including Installation and Site Preparation
6
R.9 (11) Balance of System (BOS) Costs including all Non-Equipment Capital Costs
such as Interconnection and Civil Works
8 R.13 (22) Investment
9
R.14 (15) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Perception of Foreign
Investment
10 R.15 (7) Political and Institutional _ Perception of Developer
13
14 R.22 (12) Production Factor – Required Development Cost
15 R.22 (17) Financial Factor – Cash Requirements
16 R.22 (19) Financial Factor – Size of Investment Required
17
Status Reports

05. Time
11. (05-1) Duration of Implementation (N-2)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
11
N
N-2
1 R.1 (10) Project-Specific / Construction and costs: Project Completion Delays
2 R.2 (7) Perceived Importance of the Length of the Administrative Process
3
4 R.9 (3) General Project Information _ Start Year, Project Lifetime
5 R.22 (1) Production Factor – Time until Ready to Install
6 R.22 (11) Production Factor – Required Development Time
7
Status Reports
12. (05-2) Time Reaching to Influence (N-3)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
12
N
N-3
1
R.1 (14) Project-Specific / Partners: Mismatch of Incentives and Time Horizons, e.g.
between tenants and property owners for a building efficiency investment
3
4 R.22 (2) Production Factor – Learning Curve; Time until Operating as Desired
13. (05-3) Time Reaching to Outcomes (N-4)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
13
N
N-4
1
R.1 (14) Project-Specific / Partners: Mismatch of Incentives and Time Horizons, e.g.
between tenants and property owners for a building efficiency investment
3
4 R.22 (2) Production Factor – Learning Curve; Time until Operating as Desired
06. Impact on Environmental Issues
14. (06-1) Replacement Potential and Usage of Renewable Energy Resources (P-10)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
14
P
P-10
1
R.1 (2) Political / Policy and Regulatory: Misalignment with Eventual Climate or
Environmental Policies, e.g. carbon pricing or new emission standards
2 R.3 (4) Capabilities Level for the Gradual Transformation
3 R.3 (9) Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Environmental Aspects
4 R.4 (7) Planning Factor: Integrated Resource Planning
5
Energy Technologies
6 R.5 (6) Environmental Impact
7
R.6 (14) Environmental aspects: Energy Sources (e.g. can renewable sources be used?
8 R.9 (12) Developer Soft Costs _ Environmental Studies
9 R.11 (7) Improved Environmental Benefits
10 R.14 (19) Cultural Factors _ Environmental Awareness
11
R.17 (2) Environmental Criteria (the highest energy potential and the least
environmental impacts)
12

15. (06-2) Decrease of the Environmental Wastes and Pollutants (P-11)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
15
P
P-11
1 R.1 (11) Project-Specific / Construction and costs: Low Built Quality
2
R.1 (17) Project-Specific / Environmental and social: Local Pollution or other
Environmental Degradation
3
R.3 (1) Evolved Procedures for Minimizing Classic Environmental Problems such as
Local Emission of Toxic Pollutants
4 R.3 (9) Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Environmental Aspects
5 R.5 (6) Environmental Impact
6
7
R.6 (15) Environmental aspects: Waste (e.g. can waste be minimized through good
specification, efficiency in use, re-use and recycling?)
8
R.6 (16) Environmental aspects: Pollution (e.g. have steps been taken to minimize
pollution to air, water courses and land?)
9
R.7 (2) Potential Environmental Regulations (the effectiveness of potential
environmental regulations to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the electricity
producers _ dynamic production decisions)
10 R.7 (8) Emission Rates of Fossil Fuel Generators
11 R.7 (9) Extent of the Reduction in Pollution
12 R.9 (12) Developer Soft Costs _ Environmental Studies
13
R.11 (1) Climate Change (The increasing emission of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) into
the Earth’s environment)
14 R.11 (7) Improved Environmental Benefits
15 R.12 (5) Local Air Pollution
16 R.12 (6) Impact of Energy Use on Human Health and Climate System
17
18 R.14 (3) Climate Change
19 R.14 (19) Cultural Factors _ Environmental Awareness
20 R.14 (22) Geographic Factors _ Climate
21 R.15 (15) Environmental _ Local Environment
22 R.16 (2) Environmental
23 R.16 (7) Greenhouse Gas Emissions
24 R.16 (8) Climate Change

25
R.17 (2) Environmental Criteria (the highest energy potential and the least
environmental impacts)
26
R.19 (7) Environmental Concerns (Impact on Natural or Cultural Resources, Impact on
Environment/Wildlife/Habitat)
27
R.20 (4) Compatibility with the Existing Environmental and Ecological Constraints
(International agreements can shape the final classification of the alternatives)
28
R.21 (1) Environmental Benefits (Contribution to Local Air Pollution, Acid Rain
Formulation, Global Warming)
29
30 R.22 (3) Production Factor – Effects on Waste and Rejects
31
R.22 (26) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Meet Government
Environmental Standards
07. Energy Efficiency
16. (07-1) Lower Energy Consumption (P-12)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
16
P
P-12
1
R.6 (13) Environmental aspects: Energy Consumption (e.g. what steps can be taken to
minimize energy use during construction and during normal operations? Is embodied
energy taken into account in materials selection?)
2 R.9 (6) Fuel or Energy Displacement Savings
3 R.12 (3) Innovation in New Energy Technologies and Services
4 R.12 (4) Innovation in Existing Energy Technologies and Services
5
R.13 (2) Per Capita Energy Consumption (which has been rising steadily for the last
few decades)
6 R.13 (10) Energy Performance
7 R.13 (12) Technology
8 R.13 (13) Efficiency
17. (07-2) Higher Energy Recovery (P-13)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
17
P
P-13
1
R.6 (13) Environmental aspects: Energy Consumption (e.g. what steps can be taken to
minimize energy use during construction and during normal operations? Is embodied
energy taken into account in materials selection?)
4 R.13 (10) Energy Performance
5 R.13 (12) Technology
6 R.13 (13) Efficiency
08. Impact on Energy Intensity
18. (08-1) Lower Energy Intensity _ (1st.)
Equipment Level (P-14)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
18
P
P-14
2
few decades)
19. (08-2) Lower Energy Intensity _ (2nd.)
Unit/Plant Level (P-15)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
19
P
P-15
2
few decades)

20. (08-3) Lower Energy Intensity _ (3rd.)
Company Level (P-16)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
20
P
P-16
2
few decades)
09. Impact from Other Energy Carriers
21. (09-1) Possibility or Potential for Replacement with Cheaper Energy Carrier (P-17)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
21
P
P-17
4
Efforts
7 R.11 (2) Rising Prices of Fossil Fuels
8 R.13 (15) Demand
9 R.17 (4) Reduction of the Oil Consumption
22. (09-2) Possibility or Potential for Replacement with More Available Energy Carrier (P-18)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
22
P
P-18
3
Energy Technologies
4
R.4 (18) Technical Factor: Availability of a Uniform Planning Methodology to
Account for the Stochastic Nature of the Intermittent Renewable Resources
5
R.4 (19) Technical Factor: Availability of Input Data (i.e. long-term, site-specific wind
resource and solar radiation data that enable utilities to conduct a detailed analysis of
the renewable energy generation)
6
7 R.5 (2) Accessibility
8 R.5 (7) Ease of Conversion
9
R.6 (14) Environmental aspects: Energy Sources (e.g. can renewable sources be used?
10 R.9 (6) Fuel or Energy Displacement Savings
11 R.11 (3) Search for Security of Supply
12 R.11 (5) Possibility to Use Local Resources
13 R.12 (7) Energy Security and Independence
14
16 R.13 (11) Energy Production
17 R.13 (15) Demand
19 R.13 (20) Intermittent Supply
20
R.14 (13) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Availability and Perception of
Natural Sources
21 R.15 (5) Political and Institutional _ National Good/Security of Supply
22 R.16 (9) Security and Diversity of Power Supplies
23 R.16 (10) Reducing Dependence on Imported Energy
24 R.17 (1) Bio-Energy Potential
26
R.19 (1) Potential for Solar Development (A key component of converting idle
municipal or private property into a solar revenue generator is to conduct an
assessment of these properties to determine their potential for solar development.)
27
28 R.22 (4) Production Factor – Energy Requirements
29 R.22 (9) Production Factor – Change in Raw Material Usage
30 R.22 (10) Production Factor – Availability of Raw Materials
31
Status Reports

10. Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions
23. (10-1) Necessity of Plant Shut-Down for Implementing of the Project(s) (-)
(N-5)FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences Adopted Items Taken out of the References
23
N
N-5
1
R.4 (4) Operating Factor: Generation Control, Load Following, Unit Commitment,
Reserve Requirement, and System Voltage Regulation
2 R.4 (8) Planning Factor: Accurate Planning Models
3 R.4 (13) Institutional Factor: Operating Flexibility
24. (10-2) Impact on Down-Stream Activities (-)
(N-6)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
24
N
N-6
1
R.1 (19) Project-Specific / Technological: Lower-than-Expected Performance (e.g. in
terms of efficiency, reliability) of Chosen Technologies
2 R.2 (2) Confidence in Technology Adequacy
3 R.2 (3) Technological Risk Seeking Attitude
4 R.3 (5) Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Technological Aspects
5 R.4 (3) Interface Factor: System Protection
6
7 R.4 (5) Operating Factor: Reliability Level of System Performance
10
R.4 (14) Regulatory Factor: Rate-Making Processes Reflecting the Operating
Characteristics and Attributes of Renewable Energy Systems
11 R.4 (21) Technical Factor: The Quality of Transmission and Distribution System
12
R.8 (1) Electricity Technological Concerns (e.g. balance between source and load
power magnitude, real or active power, reactive or apparent power, apparent power,
voltage, current, power quality _ frequency and power factor, and associated phase
angle)
13 R.8 (2) Storing Energy
14 R.11 (4) Self-Sufficiency
15
R.14 (16) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Importance of Energy
Independence

17
R.22 (14) Production Factor – Change in Manufacturing or Service Operations
Resulting from the Project
18 R.22 (23) Personal Factor – Inter- and Intra-Group Communication Requirements
19
R.22 (24) Personal Factor – Impact on Working Conditions (Change in workforce size
or composition)
20
R.22 (29) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Degree to which We Understand
New Technology
21
R.22 (30) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Managerial capacity to Direct
and Control New Process
22
R.23 (1) Sociocultural – Leadership, Problem Solving, Teamwork, Negotiation,
Politics
25. (10-3) Impact on Continuity of Producing Condition (-)
(N-7)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
25
N
N-7
4 R.4 (3) Interface Factor: System Protection
5
6 R.4 (5) Operating Factor: Reliability Level of System Performance
9 R.4 (21) Technical Factor: The Quality of Transmission and Distribution System
11
R.6 (2) Social aspects: Staff (e.g. can the project is built under conditions that are fair
to employees?)
12
R.8 (1) Electricity Technological Concerns (e.g. balance between source and load
power magnitude, real or active power, reactive or apparent power, apparent power,
voltage, current, power quality _ frequency and power factor, and associated phase
angle)
13 R.8 (2) Storing Energy
15 R.13 (19) Reliability
16
Independence

18
19 R.22 (13) Production Factor – Impact on Current Suppliers
20
R.22 (14) Production Factor – Change in Manufacturing or Service Operations
Resulting from the Project
22
or composition)
23
R.22 (29) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Degree to which We Understand
New Technology
24
R.22 (30) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Managerial capacity to Direct
and Control New Process
25
Politics
26. (10-4) Impact on Increase of Production Amount (+)
(P-19)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
26
P
P-19
3
4 R.4 (6) Planning Factor: Capacity Expansion
5
R.4 (14) Regulatory Factor: Rate-Making Processes Reflecting the Operating
Characteristics and Attributes of Renewable Energy Systems
7 R.9 (7) Ancillary Products or Benefits
9
or composition)
11. Impact on Equipment Energy Production Facilities Lifetime (P-20)
27. (11) Impact on Equipment Lifetime (+)
(P-20)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
27
P
P-20
4 R.13 (18) Life Span of the System
5 R.14 (21) Cultural Factors _ Attitudes to New Technologies
12. Implementation Needs
28. (12-1) Internal (National) Opportunities (N-8)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
28
N
N-8
1
R.1 (3) Political / Policy and Regulatory: Consistency and Stability of the Legal or Tax
Basis for Investment
2
R.1 (4) Political / Policy and Regulatory: Complexity of the Business Environment
(e.g. for permitting, licensing, local content) and Transparency of Business Dealings
3
R.1 (16) Project-Specific / Environmental and social: Possible Climate Impacts, e.g.
water scarcity
4
R.1 (18) Project-Specific / Operation: Geological Risk, e.g. smaller or more
challenging resources than anticipated (for upstream projects)
8
R.6 (4) Social aspects: Equity and Social Opportunity (e.g. are there opportunities for
community? Are different religious beliefs respected?)
9
R.6 (7) Economic aspects: Legal Compliance (e.g. have the implications of failure to
comply with legal requirements been evaluated? Are sufficient financial and human
resources available to deal with potential legal actions and their consequences?)
10
R.10 (2) Adoption of Implementation Strategies (that will support sustainable
development and overcoming barriers that hinder expansion of Renewable Energy
Technologies _ RETs)

12 R.13 (21) Site Selection
13 R.14 (23) Geographic Factors _ Availability of Suitable Locations
14 R.15 (1) Social Resistance (public perceptions of wind farms in New Zealand)
15 R.15 (4) Political and Institutional _ Institutional Capacity
16 R.15 (6) Political and Institutional _ Public Participation and Consultation
18 R.15 (12) Symbolic and Ideological _ Representations (of wind turbines)
19 R.15 (13) Local _ Place and Identity Processes
20
R.16 (3) Technological (e.g. new transmission lines are needed in areas where they
have never been located to bring CSP electricity to demand centres.)
21 R.16 (5) Regulatory
22 R.16 (12) Not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) Syndrome
23 R.16 (13) Land-Use
24 R.16 (14) Social Acceptance (of utility-scale renewable energy projects)
25
R.16 (16) Appearance and Size of Geographic Footprints (to influence public
acceptance)
26 R.16 (17) Well Understanding by Stakeholders and the Public
27
R.16 (18) Fully Understanding by Decision Makers (An integrative decision role
seems lacking)
28 R.17 (3) Land Use (the best locations)
29 R.18 (2) High Coordination and Control Necessary (Local CSR/Disadvantage)
30 R.19 (3) Policy or Legal Barriers
31
R.19 (4) Physical Characteristics (Site Slope/Size/Shape/Soil, Weathering and Local
Climate, Solar Irradiance, Shading)
32 R.19 (5) Planning Concerns (Zoning and Permitting, Future or Alternative Use)
33
R.19 (6) Infrastructure Concerns (Proximity to Grid Infrastructure, Site Access, Ensure
Security)
34
R.20 (1) Compatibility with Political, Legislative and Administrative Situation
(willingness, level of cooperation of governmental departments and political parties)
35
R.20 (2) Consistency with the Local Technical and Economic Condition, which
depends on the local capacity of managing the innovation both at technical and
financial levels (availability of technology, cost factors, maturity)
36
37
R.21 (2) Local Impacts (Land Use, Landscape _ Aesthetics, Rural Lifestyle, Noise,
Ecosystem Disturbineces)
38
39 R.22 (5) Production Factor – Facility and Other Equipment Requirements
40 R.22 (7) Production Factor – Other Appliances of Technology
29. (12-2) External (International) Opportunities (N-9)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
29
N
N-9
1
4 R.3 (2) Association with the Global Scenarios and not Be Merely Region Centric
6
R.6 (7) Economic aspects: Legal Compliance (e.g. have the implications of failure to
comply with legal requirements been evaluated? Are sufficient financial and human
resources available to deal with potential legal actions and their consequences?)
7
R.10 (2) Adoption of Implementation Strategies (that will support sustainable
development and overcoming barriers that hinder expansion of Renewable Energy
Technologies _ RETs)
9 R.15 (8) Socio-Economic _ Shareholding
10 R.15 (12) Symbolic and Ideological _ Representations (of wind turbines)
11 R.16 (5) Regulatory
13. Complexity
(13-1) Complexity in Project Implementation
30. (13-1-1) Necessity of Great Changes in Current Production Systems (N-10)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
30
N
N-10
2
4
R.14 (18) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Competing Technologies and
Industries

31. (13-1-2) Necessity of Small Changes in Current Production Systems (N-11)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
31
N
N-11
2
5
R.14 (18) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Competing Technologies and
Industries
(13-2) Complexity in Usage
(13-2-1) Complexity in Production or Operating Condition
32. (13-2-1-1) Necessity of Special Skills (N-12)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
32
N
N-12
1
R.1 (15) Project-Specific / Human resources: Availability of Necessary Expertise and
Qualified Labor
2 R.3 (6) Capabilities and Compatibilities Level for Man Power Aspects
4
to employees?)
5 R.9 (14) Operation and Maintenance (fixed, variable, or a combination of the two)
6 R.14 (5) Scientific and Industry Expertise
7 R.22 (21) Personal Factor – Labor Skill Requirements
33. (13-2-1-2) Necessity of Special Trainings (N-13)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
33
N
N-13
3
to employees?)
5 R.16 (15) Systematic Knowledge
6 R.22 (20) Personal Factor – Training Requirements (Need to develop/train employees)
34. (13-2-1-3) Necessity of More Presence of Specialists (Human Resources) (N-14)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
34
N
N-14
1
Qualified Labor
4
to employees?)
6 R.13 (16) Employment
8 R.19 (1) In-House Expertise
9 R.22 (22) Personal Factor – Availability of Required Labor Skills
(13-2-2) Complexity in Maintenance and Repair

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
35
N
N-15
1
Qualified Labor
5 R.22 (20) Personal Factor – Training Requirements (Need to develop/train employees)
6 R.22 (21) Personal Factor – Labor Skill Requirements
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
36
N
N-16
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
37
N
N-17
1
Qualified Labor
4 R.13 (16) Employment

6 R.19 (1) In-House Expertise
7 R.22 (22) Personal Factor – Availability of Required Labor Skills
14. Necessity of Research and Study
38. (14-1) Domestic (Internal) Research and Study (N-18)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
38
N
N-18
2 R.4 (11) Institutional Factor: Experience
3
R.4 (16) Technical Factor: Necessary Information or Adequate Analytic Tools to Use
It
39. (14-2) Research Project Definition and Study out of the Company (N-19)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
39
N
N-19
3
R.4 (16) Technical Factor: Necessary Information or Adequate Analytic Tools to Use
It
15. Implementation History and Background in Other Companies (P-21)
40. (15) Implementation History and Background in Other Companies (+)
(P-21)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
40
P
P-21
1 R.2 (8) Investor’s Experience
2 R.2 (9) RE Share in the Investment Portfolio
5
6
R.14 (4) Technology (the transfer of these local experiences from one site to another is
not unproblematic)
7 R.14 (20) Cultural Factors _ Historical Experiences
8 R.15 (15) Personal _ Previous Experience and Knowledge
16. Knowledge Improvement
41. (16-1) Personnel(s)' Knowledge Improvement (P-22)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
41
P
P-22
1
R.4 (12) Institutional Factor: Information (e.g. unawareness of recent technology and
uncertainty of RE technologies)
2
4 R.22 (27) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Impact on Information System
42. (16-2) National Knowledge Improvement (P-23)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
42
P
P-23
2
R.4 (12) Institutional Factor: Information (e.g. unawareness of recent technology and
uncertainty of RE technologies)
3
5 R.22 (27) Administrative and Miscellaneous Factor – Impact on Information System
17. Impact on Cultural Issues
43. (17-1) Impact on Company's Culture (P-24)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
43
P
P-24
1 R.2 (9) RE Share in the Investment Portfolio
5
6
R.6 (5) Social aspects: Amenity (e.g. does the project provide an amenity that
improves the quality of life for staff and the local community?)
7
8 R.14 (6) Cultural Meaning attached to the Technology
9 R.15 (10) Socio-Economic _ Social Impact
10
R.15 (11) Social and Communicative _ Social Influence Processes (media, social
networks, trust)

11 R.16 (4) Social-psychological
12 R.16 (11) Community Pride (positive effects on community identity)
13
R.16 (16) Appearance and Size of Geographic Footprints (to influence public
acceptance)
14
R.16 (18) Fully Understanding by Decision Makers (An integrative decision role
seems lacking)
15
R.18 (1) Policies, Processes, and Structures Consistent across Cultures (Global
CSR/Advantage)
16
17
18
19
R.21 (5) Public Character of Energy Decision Making (Sustainability, Complexity,
Irreversibility, Democracy)
20
22
or composition)
23
Politics
44. (17-2) Impact on Social Culture (P-25)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
44
P
P-25
3
4
5
6 R.13 (23) Social Acceptance
7
R.14 (1) Societal Acceptance (in terms of different technologies, contexts refers to the
historical, cultural, institutional, social, economic, material and geographical settings
that surround, shape and are shaped by the technology at the local and at the national
level and stakeholder involvement approaches)

8 R.14 (6) Cultural Meaning attached to the Technology
9 R.14 (7) Public Awareness and Participation Needed
11
R.14 (14) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Interest in Employment
Opportunities and Regional Economic Development
12 R.15 (10) Socio-Economic _ Social Impact
13
R.15 (11) Social and Communicative _ Social Influence Processes (media, social
networks, trust)
14 R.16 (4) Social-psychological
16 R.16 (14) Social Acceptance (of utility-scale renewable energy projects)
17
R.16 (16) Appearance and Size of Geographic Footprints (to influence on public
acceptance)
18 R.16 (17) Well Understanding by Stakeholders and the Public
19
R.18 (1) Policies, Processes, and Structures Consistent across Cultures (Global
CSR/Advantage)
20
21
22
23
R.21 (5) Public Character of Energy Decision Making (Sustainability, Complexity,
Irreversibility, Democracy)
24
25 R.22 (13) Production Factor – Impact on Current Suppliers
26
Politics
18. Necessity of Receiving the Licensor's Permission (N-20)
45. (18) Necessity of Receiving the Licensor’s Permission (-)
(N-20)
FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
45
N
N-20
1
3 R.19 (5) Planning Concerns (Zoning and Permitting, Future or Alternative Use)
19. Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of the Projects] (P-26)
46. (19) Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of the Projects]
(+)
(P-26)

FactorNumber
InfluenceType
Coding
inthereferences
46
P
P-26
1 R.3 (2) Association with the Global Scenarios and not Be Merely Region Centric
5
R.6 (3) Social aspects: Community (e.g. how does the project integrate with local
needs? Is there dialogue with stakeholders? Can staff get involved with local
initiatives?)
6
7
8
9
10
R.7 (3) The Growth of Local Economies (which were the target of large government
expenditures)
11
R.10 (3) Environmental Policy for Promotion of RETs (in order to define its role in
revitalization of their economies)
12 R.10 (4) Policy Incentives for Promotion of RETs
16 R.12 (7) Energy Security and Independence
17 R.12 (9) Political Feasibility Considerations
19 R.13 (9) GNP/Energy Ratio
20 R.13 (11) Energy Production
21
R.14 (1) Societal Acceptance (in terms of different technologies, contexts refers to the
historical, cultural, institutional, social, economic, material and geographical settings
that surround, shape and are shaped by the technology at the local and at the national
level and stakeholder involvement approaches)
22 R.14 (7) Public Awareness and Participation Needed
24
R.14 (14) Socio-Economic and Infrastructural Factors _ Interest in Employment
Opportunities and Regional Economic Development
25
Independence
27 R.16 (6) Job Creation
29 R.22 (9) Production Factor – Change in Raw Material Usage

4-1-3: Step Three - The Final List of Decision Making Factors/Aspects
The aspects/factors have been listed as follows: (“P” stands for “Positive” and “N” stands for
“Negative”.)
01. Potential Renewable Energy Resources
1. (01-1) Type of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-1)
2. (01-2) Amount of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-2)
02. The Degree of Support from the Companies' Policy and Strategy
3. (02-1) Support from Company's Policy (P-3)
4. (02-2) Support from National Policy (P-4)
03. Impact on Safety Issues
5. (03) Decrease of the Safety Risk Intensity (P-5)
04. Financial and Economic Parameters
6. (04-1) Benefit Amount (+)
(P-6)
7. (04-2) Revenue (+)
(P-7)
8. (04-3) Opportunities or Potentials for Using Governmental Subsidies (+)
(P-8)
9. (04-4) Increase of Fossil Energy Resources Costs (+)
(P-9)
10. (04-5) Investment Amount (-)
(N-1)
05. Time
11. (05-1) Duration of Implementation (N-2)
12. (05-2) Time Reaching to Influence (N-3)
13. (05-3) Time Reaching to Outcomes (N-4)
06. Impact on Environmental Issues
14. (06-1) Replacement Potential and Usage of Renewable Energy Resources (P-10)
15. (06-2) Decrease of the Environmental Wastes and Pollutants (P-11)
07. Energy Efficiency
16. (07-1) Lower Energy Consumption (P-12)
17. (07-2) Higher Energy Recovery (P-13)
08. Impact on Energy Intensity
18. (08-1) Lower Energy Intensity _ (1st.)
19. (08-2) Lower Energy Intensity _ (2nd.)
20. (08-3) Lower Energy Intensity _ (3rd.)
09. Impact from Other Energy Carriers
21. (09-1) Possibility or Potential for Replacement with Cheaper Energy Carrier (P-17)
22. (09-2) Possibility or Potential for Replacement with More Available Energy Carrier (P-18)
10. Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions
23. (10-1) Necessity of Plant Shut-Down for Implementing of the Project(s) (-)
(N-5)
24. (10-2) Impact on Down-Stream Activities (-)
(N-6)
25. (10-3) Impact on Continuity of Producing Condition (-)
(N-7)
26. (10-4) Impact on Increase of Production Amount (+)
(P-19)

11. Impact on Equipment Energy Production Facilities Lifetime (P-20)
27. (11) Impact on Equipment Energy Production Facilities Lifetime (+)
(P-20)
12. Implementation Needs
28. (12-1) Internal (National)
Opportunities (N-8)
29. (12-2) External (International)
Opportunities (N-9)
13. Complexity
(13-1) Complexity in Project Implementation
30. (13-1-1) Necessity of Great Changes in Current Production Systems (N-10)
31. (13-1-2) Necessity of Small Changes in Current Production Systems (N-11)
(13-2) Complexity in Usage
(13-2-1) Complexity in Production or Operating Condition
(13-2-2) Complexity in Maintenance and Repair
14. Necessity of Research and Study
38. (14-1) Domestic (Internal) Research and Study (N-18)
39. (14-2) Research Project Definition and Study out of the Company (N-19)
15. Implementation History and Background in Other Companies (P-21)
40. (15) Implementation History and Background in Other Companies (+)
(P-21)
16. Knowledge Improvement
41. (16-1) Personnel(s)' Knowledge Improvement (P-22)
42. (16-2) National Knowledge Improvement (P-23)
17. Impact on Cultural Issues
43. (17-1) Impact on Company's Culture (P-24)
44. (17-2) Impact on Social Culture (P-25)
45. (18) Necessity of Receiving the Licensor’s Permission (-)
(N-20)
46. (19) Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of the Projects]
(+)
(P-26)
The following figure demonstrates the first revision of the force-yield view of the decision-making
aspects that lead to prioritisation and approval of renewable energy projects according to their perceived
degrees of impact.

ApprovalandPrioritizationof
RenewableEnergyProjects
PositiveForces
Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of the Projects]
Potential Renewable Energy Resource(s)
The Degree of support from the Companies' Policy and Strategy
Impact on Safety Issues
Financial and Economic Parameters (+)
Impact on Environmental Issues
Energy Efficiency
Impact on Energy Intensity
Impact from Other Energy Carriers
Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions (+)
Impact on EquipmentEnergy Production Facilities Lifetime
Implementation History and Background in Other Companies
Knowledge Improvement
Impact on Cultural Issues
Financial and Economic Parameters (-)
Time
Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions (-)
Implementation Needs
Complexity
Necessity to Research and Study
Necessity to Receiving the Licensor's Permission
NegativeForces
P-1 P-2
P-5
P-6 P-7 P-8 P-9
P-10 P-11
P-14 P-15 P-16
P-19
P-3 P-4
P-12 P-13
P-17 P-18
P-20
P-21
P-22 P-23
P-24 P-25
P-26
N-1
N-2 N-3 N-4
N-5 N-6 N-7
N-8 N-9
N-10 N-11 N-12 N-13 N-14 N-15 N-16 N-17
N-18 N-19
N-20
Figure 4-0001: The Force-Yield View of the Decision-Making Aspects that Lead to Prioritisation and
Approval of Renewable Energy Projects

4-2: Gathered Data from Questionnaires and Sorted Aspects/Factors based on Their
Degrees of Perceived Influence
As mentioned in section 3-7-2 and appendices 2, 3 and 4, in order to sort the aspects/factors listed
in section 4-1-3 based on their degrees of perceived influence, the researcher designed
questionnaires in which he asked the respondents to rate each factor by choosing a range between
0~100 in terms of their positive or negative degrees of impact on the prioritisation and approval of
renewable energy projects in the environment of natural gas processing companies. For this
purpose, a 0% to 100% range was divided into ten decades of percentages and allocated for each
of 46 factors in order to be evaluated. (0%~10%, 11%~20%, 21%~30%, 31%~40%, 41%~50%,
51%~60%, 61%~70%, 71%~80%, 81%~90%, 91%~100%)
As a result, fifteen completed questionnaires were received from national Iranian gas company
(N.I.G.C) along with seven out of eight natural gas refineries. To rank the factors, the mean
(average) of each factor’s evaluations rated by the repondents was calculated. The results show
seventeen ranks for 26 positive decision-makins factors (some have the same rankings) and eighteen ranks
for 20 negative decision-making factors (again; some have the same rankings). The following tables
demonstrate the described process:
No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
Positive Aspects/Factors
7.469231 Total Mean
P-1 Rank 1 21.387% 9.066667 Impact on Equipment Energy Production Facilities Lifetime
P-2 Rank 2 19.602% 8.933333
Implementation History and Background in Other
Companies
P-3 Rank 3-1 14.246% 8.533333
Potential Renewable Energy Resources / Type of
Usable Renewable Energy
P-4 Rank 3-2 14.246% 8.533333 Energy Efficiency / Lower Energy Consumption
P-5 Rank 3-3 14.246% 8.533333 Energy Efficiency / Higher Energy Recovery

No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
P-6 Rank 4-1 13.354% 8.466667 Financial and Economic Parameters / Revenue
P-7 Rank 4-2 13.354% 8.466667
Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions /
Impact on Increase of Production Amount
P-8 Rank 5-1 12.461% 8.400000
Financial and Economic Parameters / Benefit
Amount
P-9 Rank 5-2 12.461% 8.400000
Impact on Environmental Issues / Replacement
Potential and Usage of Renewable Energy Resources
P-10 Rank 6-1 11.569% 8.333333
The Degree of Support from the Companies' Policy
and Strategy / Support from Company's Policy
P-11 Rank 6-2 11.569% 8.333333
Impact from Other Energy Carriers / Possibility or
Potential for Replacement with Cheaper Energy
Carrier
P-12 Rank 7-1 10.676% 8.266667
Potential Renewable Energy Resources / Amount of
Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s)
P-13 Rank 7-2 10.676% 8.266667
Impact on Energy Intensity / Lower Energy Intensity
_ (3rd.) Company Level
P-14 Rank 8-1 7.999% 8.066667
Financial and Economic Parameters / Increase of
Fossil Energy Resources Costs
P-15 Rank 8-2 7.999% 8.066667
Impact on Environmental Issues / Decrease of the
Environmental Wastes
P-16 Rank 9-1 5.321% 7.866667
_ (2nd.) Unit/Plant Level
P-17 Rank 9-2 5.321% 7.866667
_ (1st.) Equipment Level
P-18 Rank 10 4.428% 7.800000
Potential for Replacement with More Available
Energy Carrier
P-19 Rank 11 -7.175% 6.933333
Impact on Safety Issues / Decrease of the Safety Risk
Intensity
P-20 Rank 12-1 -16.993% 6.200000
and Strategy / Support from National Policy
P-21 Rank 12-2 -16.993% 6.200000
Financial and Economic Parameters / Opportunities
or Potentials for Using Governmental Subsidies
P-22 Rank 13 -20.563% 5.933333 Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of the Projects]
P-23 Rank 14 -33.059% 5.000000
Impact on Cultural Issues / Impact on Company's
Culture
P-24 Rank 15 -36.629% 4.733333
Knowledge Improvement / Personnel(s)' Knowledge
Improvement
P-25 Rank 16 -39.307% 4.533333
Knowledge Improvement / National Knowledge
Improvement
P-26 Rank 17 -40.199% 4.466667 Impact on Cultural Issues / Impact on Social Culture
Table 4-0001: Calculation of the mean of the ratings for each positive factor

Negative Aspects/Factors
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
Standard
Deviation
RankingNo.
Total Mean6.850000
Impact on Continuity of Producing Condition
8.60000025.547%Rank 1N-1
Time / Time Reaching to Outcomes8.53333324.574%Rank 2-1N-2
Necessity of Plant Shut-Down for Implementing of
the Project(s)
8.53333324.574%Rank 2-2N-3
Time / Time Reaching to Influence8.33333321.655%Rank 3N-4
Time / Duration of Implementation8.06666717.762%Rank 4N-5
Complexity / Complexity in Project Implementation /
Necessity of Great Changes in Current Production
Systems
7.93333315.815%Rank 5N-6
Impact on Down-Stream Activities
7.80000013.869%Rank 6N-7
Financial and Economic Parameters / Investment
Amount
7.73333312.895%Rank 7N-8
Implementation Needs / Internal (Domestic)
Opportunities
7.4000008.029%Rank 8N-9
Implementation Needs / External (International)
Opportunities
6.800000-0.730%Rank 9N-10
Complexity / Complexity in Usage / Complexity in
Maintenance and Repair / Necessity of More
Presence of Specialists (Human Resources)
6.466667-5.596%Rank 10N-11
Necessity of Small Changes in Current Production
Systems
6.200000-9.489%Rank 11N-12
Production or Operating Condition / Necessity of
More Presence of Specialists (Human Resources)
6.066667-11.436%Rank 12N-13
Necessity of Research and Study / Research Project
Definition and Study out of the Company
6.000000-12.409%Rank 13N-14
Special Skills
5.933333-13.382%Rank 14N-15
Necessity of Research and Study / Domestic
(Internal) Research and Study
5.800000-15.328%Rank 15N-16
Special Trainings
5.733333-16.302%Rank 16N-17
Maintenance and Repair / Necessity of Special Skills
5.066667-26.034%Rank 17-1N-18
Necessity of Receiving the Licensor's Permission5.066667-26.034%Rank 17-2N-19
Maintenance and Repair / Necessity of Special
Trainings
4.933333-27.981%Rank 18N-20
Table 4-0002: Calculation of the mean of the ratings for each negative factor

Consequently, the following lists (mentioned as parts 1 and 2; respectively for positive and
negative sorted factors) have been generated:
Part 1: Ranking of Positive Factors
Rank # 01 – P-1 (Final Numbering) [27. (11) Impact on Equipment Lifetime (+)
(P-20)
]
Rank # 02 – P-2 (Final Numbering) [40. (15) Implementation History and Background in Other Companies (+)
(P-
21)
]
Rank # 03-1 – P-3 (Final Numbering) [1. (01-1) Type of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-1)
]
Rank # 03-2 – P-4 (Final Numbering) [16. (07-1) Energy Efficiency: Lower Energy Consumption (P-12)
]
Rank # 03-3 – P-5 (Final Numbering) [17. (07-2) Energy Efficiency: Higher Energy Recovery (P-13)
]
Rank # 04-1 – P-6 (Final Numbering) [7. (04-2) Revenue (+) (P-7)
]
Rank # 04-2 – P-7 (Final Numbering) [26. (10-4) Operating and Producing Condition: Impact on Increase of
Production Amount (+)
(P-19)
]
Rank # 05-1 – P-8 (Final Numbering) [6. (04-1) Benefit Amount (+) (P-6)
]
Rank # 05-2 – P-9 (Final Numbering) [14. (06-1) Environment: Replacement Potential and Usage of Renewable
Energy Resources (P-10)
]
Rank # 06-1 – P-10 (Final Numbering) [3. (02-1) Support from Company's Policy (P-3)
]
Rank # 06-2 – P-11 (Final Numbering) [21. (09-1) Possibility or Potential for Replacement with Cheaper Energy
Carrier (P-17)
]
Rank # 07-1 – P-12 (Final Numbering) [2. (01-2) Amount of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-2)
]
Rank # 07-2 – P-13 (Final Numbering) [20. (08-3) Lower Energy Intensity _ (3rd.)
]
Rank # 08-1 – P-14 (Final Numbering) [9. (04-4) Increase of Fossil Energy Resources Costs (+) (P-9)
]
Rank # 08-2 – P-15 (Final Numbering) [15. (06-2) Environment: Decrease of the Environmental Wastes and
Pollutants (P-11)
]
Rank # 09-1 – P-16 (Final Numbering) [19. (08-2) Lower Energy Intensity _ (2nd.)
]
Rank # 09-2 – P-17 (Final Numbering) [18. (08-1) Lower Energy Intensity _ (1st.)
]
Rank # 10 – P-18 (Final Numbering) [22. (09-2) Possibility or Potential for Replacement with More Available
Energy Carrier (P-18)
]
Rank # 11 – P-19 (Final Numbering) [5. (03) Decrease of the Safety Risk Intensity (P-5)
]
Rank # 12-1 – P-20 (Final Numbering) [4. (02-2) Support from National Policy (P-4)
]

Rank # 12-2 – P-21 (Final Numbering) [8. (04-3) Opportunities or Potentials for Using Governmental Subsidies
(+) (P-8)
]
Rank # 13 – P-22 (Final Numbering) [46. (19) Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of the Projects]
(+)
(P-26)
]
Rank # 14 – P-23 (Final Numbering) [43. (17-1) Impact on Company's Culture (P-24)
]
Rank # 15 – P-24 (Final Numbering) [41. (16-1) Personnel(s)' Knowledge Improvement (P-22)
]
Rank # 16 – P-25 (Final Numbering) [42. (16-2) National Knowledge Improvement (P-23)
]
Rank # 17 – P-26 (Final Numbering) [44. (17-2) Impact on Social Culture (P-25)
]
Part 2: Ranking of Negative Factors
Rank # 01 – N-1 (Final Numbering) [25. (10-3) Operating and Producing Condition: Impact on Continuity of
Producing Condition (-)
(N-7)
]
Rank # 02-1 – N-2 (Final Numbering) [13. (05-3) Time Reaching to Outcomes (N-4)
]
Rank # 02-2 – N-3 (Final Numbering) [23. (10-1) Operating and Producing Condition: Necessity of Plant Shut-
Down for Implementing of the Project(s) (-)
(N-5)
]
Rank # 03 – N-4 (Final Numbering) [12. (05-2) Time Reaching to Influence (N-3)
]
Rank # 04 – N-5 (Final Numbering) [11. (05-1) Duration of Implementation (N-2)
]
Rank # 05 – N-6 (Currently) [30. (13-1-1) Complexity: Necessity of Great Changes in Current Production
Systems (N-10)
]
Rank # 06 – N-7 (Final Numbering) [24. (10-2) Operating and Producing Condition: Impact on Down-Stream
Activities (-)
(N-6)
]
Rank # 07 – N-8 (Final Numbering) [10. (04-5) Investment Amount (-)
(N-1)
]
Rank # 08 – N-9 (Final Numbering) [28. (12-1) Implementation Needs: Internal (National)
Opportunities (N-8)
]
Rank # 09 – N-10 (Final Numbering) [29. (12-2) Implementation Needs: External (International)
Opportunities (N-9)
]
Rank # 10 – N-11 (Final Numbering) [37. (13-2-2-3) Complexity in Maintenance and Repair: Necessity of More
Presence of Specialists (Human Resources) (N-17)
]
Rank # 11 – N-12 (Final Numbering) [31. (13-1-2) Complexity: Necessity of Small Changes in Current
Production Systems (N-11)
]
Rank # 12 – N-13 (Final Numbering) [34. (13-2-1-3) Complexity in Production or Operation: Necessity of More
Presence of Specialists (Human Resources) (N-14)
]
Rank # 13 – N-14 (Final Numbering) [39. (14-2) Research and Study: Research Project Definition and Study out
of the Company (N-19)
]
Rank # 14 – N-15 (Final Numbering) [32. (13-2-1-1) Complexity in Production or Operation: Necessity of
Special Skills (N-12)
]

Rank # 15 – N-16 (Final Numbering) [38. (14-1) Research and Study: Domestic (Internal) Research and Study (N-18)
]
Rank # 16 – N-17 (Final Numbering) [33. (13-2-1-2) Complexity in Production or Operation: Necessity of
Special Trainings (N-13)
]
Rank # 17-1 – N-18 (Final Numbering) [35. (13-2-2-1) Complexity in Maintenance and Repair: Necessity of
Special Skills (N-15)
]
Rank # 17-2 – N-19 (Final Numbering) [45. (18) Necessity of Receiving the Licensor’s Permission (-)
(N-20)
]
Rank # 18 – N-20 (Final Numbering) [36. (13-2-2-2) Complexity in Maintenance and Repair: Necessity of
Special Trainings (N-16)
]
A force yield view of decision-making factors has been demonstrated below:

Figure 4-0002: The Force-Yield View of the Decision-Making Factors that Lead to Prioritisation and
Approval of Renewable Energy Projects

The following four figures represent the mean ratings for the factors in a descending order of
trend views for all positive and negative factors side by side. Meanwhile, the top tens of positive
and negative factors have been illustrated. More explanations will be given in the next chapter.

Figure 4-0003: Total Results Chart: Mean of Evaluated Scores given to the Decision-Making Factors
(both Positive and Negative) in a descending order

Figure 4-0004: Total Results Chart: Median of Evaluated Scores given to the Decision-Making Factors
(both Positive and Negative)

Figure 4-0005: Decision-Making Factors with Positive Impacts in a descending order

Figure 4-0006: Decision-Making Factors with Negative Impacts in a descending order

4-3: Gathered Data from Interviews and Categorized Answers to Each Question
As mentioned in section 3-7-3, the researcher interviewed with twenty persons; i.e. 16 managers
and 4 senior experts working in the renewable energy organisation of Iran (SUNA). The
following table shows an overview of this process:
Table 4-0003: Interviewees of SUNA Managers and Specialists

The answers of each five interview question - which all are revealed in appendix five -, are
categorized, analysed and represented through the following sections i.e. 4-3-1 to 4-3-6. More
discussions and results will be offered in the next chapter; namely chapter 5.
4-3-1: Interview Question 1, Answers and Proposed Actions to be taken
Row
Interviewee#
item#
I.Q.1 - How can Iran increase the share
of the renewable energy resources in the
country’s energy system i.e. on a wider
scale as a national strategic movement?
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
1
I.#1
2
To promote renewable energy
organisation of Iran as the senior proctor
of renewable energies area (now at the
third level, respectively Ministry of
Energy, after TAVANIR and then SANA),
therefore; instead of standing in the
position of making decisions, SUNA is in
the stand for doing research (a proposed
solution: the integration of SUNA with the
energy efficiency organisation to establish
the new organisation named as SATBA),
i.e. strategic movement requires a strategic
organisation as a sovereign or supreme
level;
To prepare the infrastructure in
terms of legal and regulatory,
structural, technological,
cultural, financial, industrial,
and political aspects
38
36.89%
2
I.#10
1
To use the investments from the private
sector as the best way;
38
3
I.#10
3 Loans with low or appropriate interest;
38
4
I.#10
5
Use of external [foreign] sources for
investment following the lifting of
sanctions;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
5
I.#11
4
Pricing of renewable energies in proper
form, each part of renewable energies can
have a different price in comparison to
other sectors, therefore, it will become
beneficial for investors, e.g. if the payback
is between 3 and 5 years, and the purchase
of produced energy is guaranteed;
38
6
I.#11
7
To prioritise for clarification of
investment potentials following proper
economic analysis, identification of
existing resources, relevant technologies,
local [domestic] production facilities or
technology from abroad as import
licensing for higher productivity, lower
cost and longer life, etc. distinguished by
the experts and relevant authorities;
38
7
I.#12
5
Low cost difference between electricity
consumption in peak and off-peak time
(explanation: the encouragement for power
consumption during low load hours in
comparison to the amount of fine for
power consumption during peak hours
does not make serious incentive for
compliance and consumer balance. In fact,
the difference should be enough to lead the
consumers to optimal use.);
38
8
I.#12
6
Not to ignore indirect costs in the
economic calculations (such as the cost of
producing carbon or environmental
pollution); in other words, we do not
execute the life cycle analysis (LCA);
38
9
I.#13
3
Economic and financial support by the
government in order to turn the wheel of
renewable energy issues; like clusters of
industry which funds to be injected inside
to survive due to continued production and
survival strategies. This support will be
helpful in principle to the
commercialization of technologies. For
instance, the cost of planting flowers and
green spaces for municipal, the cost of
treatment for the Ministry of Health, the
cost of training for the Ministry of
Education, etc. are examples of the nature
of public services and governance
requirements. So does every activity of
government cannot be done on the basis of
financial benefits or looking businessman
conservative, but futuristic concerns;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
10
I.#13
5
To forecast for the required financial
resources to buy energies produced
from renewable sources;
38
11
I.#15
1
Need for a series of protective laws, like
other countries. Of course, we are already
moving in this direction, such as providing
incentives for purchasing power;
38
12
I.#15
2
To create a very strong executive
authority that would move towards the
target(s);
38
13
I.#16
3
To obtain international facilities to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
38
14
I.#16
4
To remove lack of payments balanced to
the income obtained from the
implementation of renewable projects
(such as reducing fossil fuel consumption,
reducing environmental pollution, etc.);
38
15
I.#17
1
The government to provide the
necessary credits [funds] for the
development and maintenance of the
existing systems and further development
of the systems;
38
16
I.#18
6
To facilitate the entry of updated
renewable energy technologies;
38
17
I.#18
7
To pay subsidies for the productive
sectors of renewable energy generators
to reduce the price and increase the
competitive potential of their technology
with conventional fossil fuels systems;
38
18
I.#19
2 To attract foreign investment;
38
19
I.#2
2
To codify the instructions and upstream
laws to fit the development planning
according to the approved and strategic
document mentioned in the previous
paragraph;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
20
I.#20
1
To develop the technology [for making
the required] infrastructure in order to
empower the country in the construction
and deployment of products;
38
21
I.#20
2
To support the private sector to enter
the market;
38
22
I.#3
2
To prepare the infrastructure in three
areas: legal and regulatory, structural
and technological;
38
23
I.#4
3
To set the appropriate laws and
regulations to facilitate investment and
activity in the field of renewable energies;
38
24
I.#4
4
To rearrange [To revise] the foreign
investment process;
38
25
I.#4
5
To codify regulations and practical
solutions to support the private sector;
38
26
I.#4
6
[To consider] the need for cultural
infrastructure, financial, technological,
industrial, and coordinating them with
each other;
38
27
I.#4
7
To try to facilitate the entry of foreign
investors;
38
28
I.#5
5
To require a particular national
commitment by the government to
facilitate related issues, including budget
requirements, the necessary law or
legislation, to prepare the private sector
for entry to this area whereas in this case,
the development of biomass is expected
faster and more extensive than other
renewable sources, due to the fact that the
field of biomass technologies is very
simple and in terms of complexity, cannot
be compared with other sources of
renewable technologies;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
29
I.#7
3
Greater support for renewable energies
by the Ministry of Energy in order to
create interest as much as possible;
38
30
I.#7
4
To give loans by banks in the form of
association with the Ministry of Energy, to
attract the investors and to raise the
confidence in the investment (financial
factor is also very important.);
38
31
I.#8
1
Main drivers to move in this direction: 1.
environmental incentives, 2 dispel
concerns and financial issues. If we
select our tactics or strategies based on
these two channels [drivers], we can make
sure we have better success. For example,
to settle a new technology, we have
principles. Among those mechanisms, [the
principles are like those in] the national
system of innovation, the development of
technology, TIS [Transfer Information
System] & NIS [Network Information
Service] systems and other issues such as
these. Using these methods and logic to
develop a technology in our country or
region, we should also consider the above
mentioned two channels. In the financial
area, we do not mean that only the
government should allocate huge budgets
to this issue. While investment policy
made properly, some load may also be
removed from the government. If this does
not happen in the short term, this can occur
in medium and/or long term;
38
32
I.#8
4
Promoting, investment policy-making
and putting rails for the issue of the use
of renewable energy sources instead of
fossils in the countries which do not have
fossil energy sources; are very difficult. [It
is much more difficult in] Iran, a country
with the highest volume of oil and gas
resources in the world. Therefore, it should
be conducted with particular attention and
taking into account the aspects and
complexity of the case;
38
33
I.#8
5
We should go towards the policies by
which the Ministry of Energy acts freely in
terms of economic issues;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
34
I.#8
8
To pay attention carefully to the
elements and rings of the policy-making
chain, in the event of shortage or
malfunctioning of each, the other chains
are also ineffective. In other words, it is
like a gear system in which all gears must
properly act so that the whole mechanism
works appropriately;
38
35
I.#8
9
To consider the different types of
renewable resources differently in which
the insight should be altered according to
each type. Because there are special actors
[role players], policies and procedures for
each kind [of renewable energy sources].
For example, geothermal energy depends on
the earth. Biomass depends on the amount
of waste. Wind is blowing in special
regions. The sun is more general; but it
depends on higher-level technology and
more development should be done on its
technology. In case the fuel cell; it is a tool
that complements the topics of renewable
energies;
38
36
I.#9
2
Infrastructure and relevant foundations
for the development concerned in the
country to be in accordance with the area;
38
37
I.#9
3
Presence of qualified human resources
and academic elite for the development of
this industry is essential. People should
have a basic academic information (such as
knowledge of basic engineering, including
mechanical, electrical and chemical); later
with strategic and practical courses to meet
the renewable energies industry, can be
helpful in this area. There must be trained
science-based in university. [Of course,] the
academic majors in terms of energy or even
renewable energies are held in graduate
level [MSc];
38
38
I.#9
4
There are multiple causes and factors that
influence on this field. In other words, it can
depend on political, economic, industrial,
technical issues;
38
39
I.#11
1
To recognize comprehensively the
renewable energy, in terms of
characteristics, obstacles, problems and
goodness;
To have documented strategic
plan / To prepare the national
road map for energy portfolio
11
10.68%

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
40
I.#11
8
To choose a model of development; a
programme that shows what we want to do
and to what extent we want to develop;
11
41
I.#11
15
To state the assessment reasonably and
honestly done by the expert to understand
the necessity of pushing the use of
renewable resources (if expensive, we will
develop the cheaper ones);
11
42
I.#12
1
Introductory remarks: renewable energy
sources should be categorized. Some of
the resources are growing and some are in
their puberty [mature] stage. Fortunately,
none of them have reached the stage of
aging. For this reason, the same general
formula for a variety of sources used in the
country cannot be applied. Each section has
its own strategy. For example, the field of
fuel cells and hydrogen, is still at the stage
of pre-commercialization or demonstration.
There are many barriers in the way of
achieving its maturity and
commercialization, and at this time,
research is being done on them. Nonetheless
areas such as wind, photovoltaic or
incinerators have reached maturity in terms
of technology and they are at the stage of
developing market. Therefore, structures
and models of market development can be
applied to them. (Such as the feed-in-tariff
for purchase of electricity and investment
incentives);
11
43
I.#13
1
Considering that our country moves forward
to growth and development, so definitely
more energy sources will be needed. In Iran,
oil and gas economy is of great importance.
[However,] we should certainly take
advantage from renewable energy sources,
in other words, diversify our country's
energy portfolio. For the move, this subject
[the development of the country's energy
portfolio] should be considered in the
country's governance system. For example,
water resources that currently supply
several thousand megawatts of energy, it
seems that in the future cannot play the role
very well [because of shortage in water
resources]. Taking water from the dam to
turn turbines and generators for power
generation cannot continue if the need for
water storage arises. Therefore, the
exploitation of renewable sources should
be considered in long-term plans and
prospects for the country explicitly.
("How much percent up to this year?" must
be included [in the national planning in each
area].);
11

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
44
I.#13
2
To facilitate the development of practical
application of renewable energy
technologies such as solar water heaters as
a comprehensive strategy;
11
45
I.#14
4
We should have a plan for renewable
sources, especially for our own country.
For example, Germany may have a good
potential of wind but no good at solar
energy. Therefore, the plan of Germany
cannot be an appropriate model for our
country;
11
46
I.#19
1 Strategic plan;
11
47
I.#2
1
To have the required mechanisms for the
implementation of the approved and
documented strategic plan for the
development of renewable energies in the
country, including diversified or various
forms of renewable resources; in other
words, to determine the parameters and the
short - medium and long term actions in
order to reveal the themes that should be
followed;
11
48
I.#3
4
To prepare the national road map for
each renewable source (including the
necessity for use, the potential, the relevant
technology and the determined roles of the
actors);
11
49
I.#4
1
To include the renewable energy sources in
the energy portfolio of the country;
11
50
I.#11
2
Development of renewable energies is
basically just a matter of life and death
for mankind accordingly; that was told for
years that if we continue to develop the use
of fossil fuels, we will see undesirable
climate changes; this event has actually
occurred;
To move forward
environmental issues
11
10.68%
51
I.#11
10
To improve the public awareness,
knowledge and culture for greater
convergence in such a way that they do not
just expect economic interests through the
use of renewable sources, but they consider
the important environmental concerns
(for themselves and for their next
generations as ever-lasting and better
heritage);
To move forward
11

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
52
I.#11
14
To look at the renewable energy use as a
necessity by the government (as a medicine
in the field of health, a school in the field of
education, subject as if the cost factor does
not matter);
To move forward
11
53
I.#13
4
To look widely at the issue of renewable
energy sources through an environmental
perspective. (Ministry of Energy of course,
concerns the supply of electricity and it
seems that this subject should be followed
by upper authorized levels i.e. by the
government and parliament, finally. This
issue should become as a multi-sectoral
issue. At present, department of
environment is not the main actor, efficient
in its concern or stimulant which can affect
[on the society]. Still, it is a minor player.
Still, the thought that the development of
renewable energies can help to improve the
quality of the environment has not been as
effective.);
To move forward
11
54
I.#14
2
According to studies, international scientific
organisations state that the only way out
the problems caused by greenhouse gas
emissions is the vast development of
renewable resources, accordingly we should
not consider ourselves far apart from the
move. Energy efficiency can reduce the
amount of greenhouse gas emissions but
how far can continue? Or to what extent it
can be effective?;
To move forward
11
55
I.#16
3
To obtain international facilities to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
To move forward
11
56
I.#18
3
On the other hand, one of the main drivers
of the development of renewable resources
in the world is the environmental issues.
Unfortunately, enormous environmental
problems in the country do not enter the
higher levels of planning in Iran. Taxes for
environmental pollution associated with
conventional systems in the world causes
the increasing cost of fossil energy
resources and therefore, economic
feasibility of renewable sources increases.
For example, in the United States of
America, the government does not allow the
installation of fossil power generation due
to air pollution in parts of the city, not even
the advanced and updated systems, and
people have no choice but to use clean and
renewable power generation;
To move forward
11

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
57
I.#18
4
To impose of taxes on polluting fossil-fuel
energy production systems;
To move forward
11
58
I.#5
2
We are obliged to move forward in
extracting energy from biomass due to the
environmental issues. There is a major
difference between biomass resources and
other renewable sources such as solar or
wind;
To move forward
11
59
I.#8
1
Main drivers to move in this direction: 1.
environmental incentives, 2 dispel
concerns and financial issues. If we select
our tactics or strategies based on these two
channels [drivers], we can make sure we
have better success. For example, to settle a
new technology, we have principles.
Among those mechanisms, [the principles
are like those in] the national system of
innovation, the development of technology,
TIS [Transfer Information System] & NIS
[Network Information Service] systems and
other issues such as these. Using these
methods and logic to develop a technology
in our country or region, we should also
consider the above mentioned two channels.
In the financial area, we do not mean that
only the government should allocate huge
budgets to this issue. While investment
policy made properly, some load may also
be removed from the government. If this
does not happen in the short term, this can
occur in medium and/or long term;
To move forward
11
60
I.#8
2
Indeed, the development of renewable
energy use is very difficult. Because from
the perspective of the environmental
issues, there need for awareness, promotion
and raise of public culture cannot be
happened easily, over one night, or with an
advertising message;
To move forward
11
61
I.#1
1
To look vision-oriented at the development
of renewable energies by the
sections/departments of the Ministry of
Energy and upstream
integration/organisations, as well as
understanding its importance in terms of
economic, social, political and international
aspects;
To create synergy and
convergence between the
responsible agencies in the
government, authorities and
people
9
8.74%

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
62
I.#11
11
To inform the decision-makers to know the
use of renewable sources of energy is
effective and good (it requires [the special]
documentation which they can see);
people
9
63
I.#11
12
To develop the use of solar water heaters
and photovoltaic systems as a feasible and
possible step, as well as incentives and
advertising influencing the minds of the
public;
people
9
64
I.#14
1
First, we must believe that renewable
energy is a necessity for the country. In
other words, [it is needed to] reform the
attitudes and beliefs of some officials who
say that we have sufficient resources of
fossil fuels, so why should we go into these
energies? For instance, the question arises
that a country like the United States, as one
of the world's largest holders of fossil fuels,
why has moved towards the use of
renewable energies? Consequently, we
should believe that the world needs these
resources [renewables] in the future. It is
the world's technological future [movement]
and the belief in authorities to take shape,
this field itself has its own way and capital.
In addition, it is noteworthy that only the
aspect of energy of renewable sources, not
to be considered. For example, the United
States wants to produce a billion tons of
petrochemical products from plants or
biomass in 2050. [Other example is related
to the] fines for activities that lead to
environmental pollution determined by the
trustees in the world and is practically
associated with the world as a global
village;
people
9
65
I.#14
3
When desire proceeds towards the use of
renewable resources, there will occur
industrial development;
people
9
66
I.#18
8
To increase public awareness of the
benefits of renewable energy systems;
people
9

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
67
I.#3
3
Synergy must take place between the
responsible agencies in the government
(the subject of renewable energies is a
cross-sectional work, the ministry cannot
have the exclusive domain of a role to play,
instead all related parties must play their
roles);
people
9
68
I.#5
6
Need for synergy and convergence
between the authorities according to
which all are familiar with this area, more
national approach to the field of biomass,
not considering the Ministry of Energy just
responsible for power generation [from
fossil sources];
people
9
69
I.#9
1
Views of decision makers in the field of
energy are to be in the direction of the
implementation of projects for the
renewable sources use. ([Of course,]
considering the insistence besides positive
and particular view of the supreme leader
[of Iran] to this field, naturally the
authorities’ insights to this area have turned
to be very positive and helpful.);
people
9
70
I.#1
3
To reveal real prices of fossil fuels by
removing subsidies, calculated in terms of
lost opportunities, such as the inability to
export, not to produce value-added products
with added values, not to pollute the
environment, i.e. current generating of
energy from renewable sources to produce
electricity is much cheaper than fossil fuels;
To reveal real prices of fossil
fuels by removing subsidies
8
7.77%
71
I.#16
1
To make real the actual energy prices (key
factor);
8
72
I.#18
1
In my opinion, the release of the energy
market is the major way and the root of
many problems in the country's energy
system. Of course, this solution is now out
of reach. Currently, the government
manages many parts of the country's
important and key energy issues, and on the
other hand private sector is not prepare to
tenure these parts. Most important of all, the
economy cannot tolerate this release.
Surely, energy market liberalization
requires extensive economic reforms in the
country which makes it very difficult;
8

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
73
I.#18
2
One of the aspects that energy market
liberalization in Iran could help the
development of renewable energy is the
release of energy prices. Currently, paying
subsidies for fossil energy, renewable
energy projects encounter infeasibility.
However, part of this problem is solved via
tariff reform for purchase of renewable
electricity this year, still it does not respond;
8
74
I.#3
1
The energy sources [fossil fuels] that are
already available to consumers with
subsidies go to the direction of subsidy-
removal; i.e. using renewable energies due
to the current prices of fossil fuels have
been illustrated as non-economic
[infeasible];
8
75
I.#6
2 Energy carrier prices to be real;
8
76
I.#8
6
Gradual liberalization of energy prices
and the development of energy market;
8
77
I.#8
7
Attractiveness of renewable energy prices
(as with presenting the new CEO of SUNA,
Doctor Sadegh-Zadeh, SUNA is to move
towards.);
8
78
I.#5
1
To consider an appropriate guaranteed
purchase price for electricity [generated
from renewable sources] as neither too
low which yields no attractions nor too high
which cannot be afforded [by the
government] (contracts are concluded for
twenty years, and therefore we must act
very cautiously);
To purchase electricity
produced from renewable
energy sources guaranteed at a
reasonable price
7
6.80%
79
I.#7
1
To continue the implementation of the new
legislation for guaranteed purchase of
electricity;
reasonable price
7
80
I.#10
2
Government support by guaranteed
purchase [of electricity produced from
renewable sources] and incentives (now the
guaranteed purchase in terms of price is
very good);
reasonable price
7
81
I.#10
4
Long-term contracts for the purchase of
electricity;
reasonable price
7
82
I.#11
13
To allocate appropriate funds for
guaranteed purchase of electricity
produced from renewable sources logically
(lack of required credit and funding
prevents the development and use of the
renewable sources);
reasonable price
7

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
83
I.#18
5
To increase tariffs for renewable
electricity purchase;
reasonable price
7
84
I.#20
3
The government to pay subsidies for
guaranteed purchase and sale;
reasonable price
7
85
I.#11
3
Need for governmental support in order to
raise the competitiveness of renewable
energies, such as proper investment
activities;
To stimulate competitiveness 4
3.88%
86
I.#12
4
Competition among producers of
electricity from renewable sources if there
exist some limitations in national grid
capacity (in the current situation, all
produced electricity can be injected into line
because there is a need. However if supply
is increased, dispatching organisation will
announce that the power with higher
confidence is purchased. In that case, the
use of energy storage systems, will be
important.);
87
I.#17
2
The government to try to accomplish on the
competitiveness of the private sector to
use renewable energy sources for electricity
generation;
88
I.#8
3
From the financial perspective, it must be
acted in order to stimulate
competitiveness;
89
I.#11
7
To prioritise for clarification of investment
potentials following proper economic
analysis, identification of existing
resources, relevant technologies, local
[domestic] production facilities or
technology from abroad as import
licensing for higher productivity, lower cost
and longer life, etc. distinguished by the
experts and relevant authorities;
To optimise use of existing
potential in the country
3
2.91%
90
I.#5
3
To try to use the high potential of energy
exploitable from biomass resources;
3
91
I.#7
5
To optimise use of existing potential in
the country (such as the appropriate
sunlight and also the wind in the North and
East of the country, including Khorasan);
3
92
I.#6
1
Insights and attitudes towards public beliefs
[credo into renewable energy sources] to
be changed;
To change public credo or
beliefs into the use of
renewable energy sources
1
0.97%
93
I.#20
4
To cooperate with international
developers as a collaborator or
consultant;
developers as a collaborator or
consultant
1
0.97%

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
94
I.#11
9
Background such as marginal market for
some renewable energy sources can be a
good help for their development e.g. the use
of photovoltaic for watches, calculators,
door openers, etc.;
To create marginal market for
some renewable energy sources
1
0.97%
95
I.#6
3
Public and especially policy makers’ and
the government’s knowledge [relevant to
renewable energy subject] to be
increased;
To increase the knowledge
relevant to renewable energy
subject
1
0.97%
96
I.#4
8
To pay attention to the risks facing the
private sector in case of entry to this subject
[renewable energy field] (we are better to
consider ourselves replacing the private
sector in order to understand their situation
better);
To pay attention to the risks 1
0.97%
97
I.#16
2
To provide appropriate policy and
strategy for the export of electricity
produced from renewable sources;
To provide appropriate policy
and strategy for the export of
electricity produced from
renewable sources
1
0.97%
98
I.#4
2
To provide incentives for pushing energy
consumers to meet [some part of] their
needs from renewable energy sources;
To provide incentives 1
0.97%
99
I.#12
2
To stimulate the demand side - that
stimulates the supply side - will be
applicable for those renewable resources
that their technology has reached
maturity. Such as wind, photovoltaic and
incinerators;
To stimulate the demand side
for matured renewable
resources
1
0.97%
100
I.#12
3
To stimulate the supply side, leading to
stimulation of the demand will be
applicable for those renewable resources
that their technology is not mature. Such as
fuel cells and hydrogen;
To stimulate the supply side for
immature renewable resources
1
0.97%
101
I.#11
16
To try to develop the possible items
[renewable sources exploitation
technologies] that over time, reduction of
their prices will occur by themselves (such
as the development of wind energy
technology that has significantly reduced its
cost price [over time], or the price drop in
the purchasing power of the photovoltaic in
Germany from about 60 euro cents per one
kWh to 35~40 euro cents, now);
To try to develop the possible
items [renewable sources
exploitation technologies]
1
0.97%

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
102
I.#7
2
To try to increase the number of
contractors and activating them who are
associated with different fields of renewable
resources (e.g. [as a negative case]; the
construction of wind turbines is unipolar
and the only manufacturer is Sabaniroo
company. [In general,] being single causes
no growth of the industry, a long time for
implementing of the projects and so on.);
To try to increase the number
of contractors and activating
them
1
0.97%
103
I.#5
4
To try to make good use of the
capabilities of existing local [domestic]
industries and experts;
capabilities of existing local
[domestic] industries and
experts
1
0.97%

4-3-2: Interview Question 2, Answers and Proposed Actions to be taken
Row
Interviewee#
item#
I.Q.2 - What are the main
barriers/aspects/factors preventing the
expansion of applying the renewable
energy resources in Iranian industries?
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
1
I.#1
2
Not sustainable and appropriate
allocation of financial resources for
investing in renewable projects in terms of
schedule and policy consideration
([description]: in the current situation,
income from 30 IRR per 1 kilowatt hour
consumption equivalent to nearly 400
billion tomans [approximately $100
million] a year in electricity bills of
customers based on the calculation
principles of 2011 tariffs law in accordance
with paragraph 133 (b) of the fifth
programme yields a limited budget for
investment in renewable projects up to
400~500 megawatts electricity production
in the country);
38
46.91%
2
I.#1
3
Technical challenges and technology
management: e.g. the tasks are not
followed properly in some cases, for
example while being as a joint-venture, or
when we say everything should be done
according to the agreed license or based on
the successful international experiences.
[Moreover,] there are some difficulties in
technology acquisition methods in
comparison to successful experiences e.g.
in China, India and most recently in
Turkey. China, India and Iran, all of a
similar situation in 2000 regarding the
development of renewable energies; started
with a Danish company; called as Vestas.
[Passing 14 years,] at present, where are
they and where is Iran? There is a multi-
gigawatt production capacity in China and
India, as well as remarkable upgrading
level of technology to design and re-scale
to increase capacity, however, Iran stopped
on the capacity of 660 kW wind turbines.;
38
3
I.#1
5
[Distrust] Uncertainty of the banks for
providing loans;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
4
I.#1
6
[Distrust] Uncertainty of foreign
investors (such as not offering the required
governmental guarantees on behalf of the
Economic Council of Iran for the
construction of a 2,000 MW renewable
power plant originated from Turkey);
38
5
I.#10
1
Technology is nearly faced with some
difficulties (There exist almost the “know
how?” to some extent, i.e. technology
transfer has been done to some degree. But
there does not exist the “know why?”
[process]. That means the design
[capability] for renewable energy industry
is a bit fragile in Iran and the transfer of
technology still has some challenges);
38
6
I.#10
2
Lack of definition appropriate loans in
order to encourage the participation of
private sector;
38
7
I.#11
1
High initial investment (such as high
solar energy cost);
38
8
I.#12
2
[Large] allocated space and ease of
access to the facility;
38
9
I.#12
3
Intermittent or impermanent electricity
production (as a function of season and
time) / systems for energy sustainability
are important in this regard, enter into
competition, and make the renewable
energy systems dependent on their own,
such as storage systems, including a new
generation of lithium-ion batteries, the new
generation of lead-acid batteries, vanadium
or vanadium-bromide batteries in the scales
of network management (Time Shifting or
Time Leveling);
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
10
I.#13
2
Improper energy economy and the need
for permanent presence of the
government in order to continue
injecting liquidity into the energy market.
For instance, the price of fossil fuels is not
real. (Fossil energy prices in comparison
with other costs, like meat and so on; do
not come to the people’s eyes. For
example, if the price of gasoline is $0.78
per liter, they may all go towards the
purchase of electric motors which are
affordable for them. Or if natural gas prices
are more realistic, perhaps all will act to
install solar water heaters. In addition,
automatically, optimizing the energy
consumption can also be more practical,
although part of goes back to the cultural
issues of the society. When we are to pay
ten times for our natural gas consumption,
then we pay attention to our consumption.
For example, the opening and closing of
windows, insulation, etc. will be very
important.);
38
11
I.#15
2
Lack of trying electricity production
partly from renewable sources in recent
years (due to sanctions, the possibility of
funding for technologies such as wind
turbines, etc. is not among the priorities.
Therefore, decision-makers preferred to
spend on fossil fuels which were readily
available.);
38
12
I.#16
2
Absence of the appropriate cycle for
quality assessment of domestic and
imported products relevant to the
renewable energy sources, such as the lack
of reference laboratories;
38
13
I.#16
3
Inappropriate (high) interest rate so that
investors tend to deposit in the bank for
obtaining benefits. (No injection of
required liquidity for domestic investors in
renewable energy field);
38
14
I.#17
1
Required land for installation of the
[wind] turbine;
38
15
I.#17
2
Problems for the connection to the
national grid;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
16
I.#17
3 Access roads;
38
17
I.#17
4 Procurement;
38
18
I.#18
3
Lack of an agile and flexible
administrative system for delegating
many responsibilities to the private
sector and the entry of this section into the
renewable power plants;
38
19
I.#18
4
Lack of an independent banking system
to fund renewable projects so that it
removes the corrupt regimes and
eliminates long bureaucratic
administrative processes;
38
20
I.#19
1 Absence of the private sector;
38
21
I.#20
5
Lack of governmental funding for the
development;
38
22
I.#3
1
In fact, contrary to what was proposed in
the first question, actually constitute
obstacles. For example, to attract
international funding, we do not have
proper infrastructure and legal
regulations. For the use of financial
opportunities and attract foreign
investment, we must create an appropriate
mechanism;
38
23
I.#4
3 High level of initial investment required;
38
24
I.#4
4
Long waiting period for receiving
domestic products (For example, even if
the cash is ready to pay, i.e. “Cash in
Hand” for a 660 kW wind turbine, one
should wait for some months.);
38
25
I.#4
5 Existing infrastructural obstacles;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
26
I.#4
7
Existing difficult administrative
bureaucracy facing domestic and foreign
investors;
38
27
I.#4
8
Assigning no predetermined loan (in the
same package for power plants from fossil
resources is considered and included loans
at the heart of it);
38
28
I.#4
9
Existing major problems in financing
necessary for the operation of renewable
energy sources (Finding external financier
or receiving foreign currency loans from
the National Development Fund);
38
29
I.#4
10
Long administrative processes (For
example, the process of receiving land to
construct wind or solar power plants, may
take six to twelve months or more. Just
between 10 and 12 inquiries are needed);
38
30
I.#4
11
Difficult bank agreement to supply the
required credits (i.e., they prefer that the
loan payback period much shorter, like
their current working style is one or two
years.);
38
31
I.#5
1
There is lack of coordination between the
government and private sector groups.
The foreign private sector has interesting
factors such as: less influencing on their
performance by inflation, more powerful
money, longer time expected for return on
investment, which results that it is so much
easier for us to work with them. However,
they seek the guarantee for return on
investment from the Government of Iran.
Whereas the Iranian investors do not seek a
guarantee for the capital return, there is no
difficulties for exchanging of foreign
currency [e.g. dollar or euro] into IRR and
so on;
38
32
I.#5
2
The main problem facing Iranian investors
is the lack of financial support from the
banks. The banks claim that they cannot
give loans with pay back more than five
years. It is because they are not being
justified. To return the principal and
interest of the loan within 5 years,
renewable energies had to come in much
more expensive and cannot compete with
fossil fuels. Removing this obstacle
requires accurate planning and greater
financing by the government;
38

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
33
I.#5
5
The development of biomass is slow
because of some reasons such as relatively
low amount of animal waste and
industrial waste, difficulties in
integration, large number of technology
suppliers, problems for connecting to the
electricity national grid, etc.;
38
34
I.#5
8
Lack of openness and transparency of
relevant national laws and regulations
(e.g. the low interference of Department of
Environment regarding this area);
38
35
I.#5
9
Investments are not in accordance with
the existing technologies [Mismatch
between the existing technology and the
investments];
38
36
I.#6
2
Lack of adequate profitability of
projects using renewable sources. In
other words, the custodians of the industry
do not see any benefit in it. (such as the
failure of Aryasolar company in
Khorasan);
38
37
I.#8
4
Special working environment in which
there is no contributing space for
decision-makers even having required
vision, compassion, knowledge and right
approach. Very obvious example in the
current situation is the presence of Mr.
Chitchian -the minister of Energy-; as one
of the lovers and those interested in the
development of renewable energies, also
co-founder of Renewable Energy
Organisation of Iran (SUNA), but the
ministry has been involved in the daily and
economically, it is heavily indebted.
Although he has the necessary managerial
skills in this regard, to what extend the
body of work at the ministry is
accompanying, how much the society is
prepared culturally, and other similar
things; have overcome the serious
determination to develop renewable
energies;
38
38
I.#9
3
Lack of tangible attractiveness in the
field of investment on renewable
resources;
38
39
I.#11
2
Non-competitiveness with other energy
alternatives in terms of cost;
20
24.69%
40
I.#11
3
Imposition of high costs to the
government for the use of renewable
energy sources (several times that of fossil energy)
;
20

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
41
I.#12
1
Expensive renewable energy sources
(even regarding wind and photovoltaic
exploitations which are accelerated in the
world, countries are trying to add [these
renewable energy sources] to their energy
portfolio with a gentle [increasing] slope);
20
42
I.#12
4 Low Price of fossil energy;
20
43
I.#13
1
Renewable energy in all its forms and
relevant technological stages (some being
researched, some are on the stage of
entering the market and the third ones are
being commercialized) in total compared to
fossil resources may be more expensive.
However, over the past years, we have
observed that gradually, the difference has
been declining;
20
44
I.#14
1 Low price of oil and gas (fossil fuels);
20
45
I.#14
2
Non-actual electricity prices paid by the
consumer. Therefore, in comparison with
renewable resources, practically there is no
proper competition;
20
46
I.#15
1
Availability of cheap fossil fuels, because
in other countries the price is higher and
more appropriate, the use of renewable
energy sources and to capitalize on have
been done as a self-motivation.
Nonetheless, we should actually pass this
obstacle in Iran. This barrier is actually
huge investment needed for this area;
20
47
I.#16
1
Lack of real fossil energy prices and the
reluctance to use renewable energies in the
country and in the private sector;
20
48
I.#18
1 Low energy prices in the country;
20
49
I.#2
1
There is a strong competitor called
"fossil fuels" because of the high subsidies
that are given to it;
20
50
I.#20
1
Low cost of fossil energy sources and
problems regarding irregular consumption
patterns;
20
51
I.#20
2
High cost of renewable energy
technologies;
20
52
I.#4
1
Relying only on sources of fossil energy
sources;
20

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
53
I.#4
2
High price of renewable energies (needs
large investment, but the return on
investment such as a dropper);
20
54
I.#4
6
Low cost of energy resources from
fossils versus renewable sources;
20
55
I.#6
1 Low cost of fossil fuels;
20
56
I.#8
2
The sale of electricity to the consumer
not based on the actual price;
20
57
I.#8
3
Subsidies to fossil fuels; which pollutes
our environment and also creates
disadvantages to our economy. In the
world, it is said that subsidies should
usually be given to something that its use is
to be promoted. For example, subsidies to
milk is expected to increase per capita
consumption for the whole health
promotion. But, subsidy to fossil fuels, it is
like we give subsidies to smoking! High
energy consumption [intensity], low energy
savings, low efficiency in the field of
energy use, high losses in transmission
lines and all of the relevant subjects
[problems] are all because of this issue.
This causes one of the negative effects; the
Ministry of Energy does not have budget
enough to invest on alternative energy
sources. To quote from an interview with
Mr. Ali-Abadi working in Mapna
company, the annual production cost of
electricity in the country is about 38.9
million dollars, the Ministry of Energy
gains from the power sale is only about 1.3
million dollars [$1 US # 38,500 IRR]!!!;
20
58
I.#9
1
Availability of cheap fossil fuels and the
problem of competition for the use of
renewable sources with fossil sources;
20
59
I.#1
1
Looking fancy or third-grade to the
renewable energies;
people
10
12.35%
60
I.#14
4
Lack of real desire for the development
of renewable sources. (For instance,
anaerobic digesters mainly installed in
southern of Tehran have been produced by
the Iranian manufacturers and are among
the largest of their kinds in the world.);
people
10

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
61
I.#18
2
Lack of understanding of the
importance of developing renewable
sources by policy-makers. At first, this
subject may seem not very relevant to
policy-makers and said that now the need
is felt, however it should be seen to what
extent the major decisions taken in line
with the need to. Just like an effort for the
environment which is just talk and talk and
when should the funds be allocated to this
sector, we understand that the priority is
low and many of the issues much more less
important, absorb the funds;
people
10
62
I.#20
3
Inadequate knowledge and lack of full
control on all technical issues related to
renewable energy technologies;
people
10
63
I.#3
3
Another item that can be mentioned; is that
the renewable energies does not play a
vital and strategic role in the country.
For example, either water supply or
electricity for the Ministry of Energy is
critical issue and all relevant difficulties
can cause political and social problems,
however it is not so for the renewable
energies;
people
10
64
I.#5
3
The government expect a rapid
development of renewable energies. For
example, in the field of biomass, many
technologies are still in the process of
research, development, test; and
commercialization progress of technologies
proceed slowly due to the small number of
owners of these technologies. Therefore,
development is difficult;
people
10

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
65
I.#5
4
The players in the field of biomass are
very numerous and this energy source
does not belong to the own government.
Biomass is including urban waste (under
the control of municipal as a sub-
organisation under the Ministry of
Interior), sanitation (under the control of
water and wastewater agencies under the
Ministry of Energy; although they are more
consistent with the SUNA, the wastewater
treatment is in a top priority for them
instead of producing energy from them,
and in case of lack of funds, they reduce
energy production projects), manure or
animal waste (which incidentally has great
potential, however, the farmers are more
willing to use it as fertilizer. They believe
if energy production is good, the
government starts investment on it so that
we can see results. But the government dos
not enter into it, the private sector, both
foreign and domestic, sees these problems
and is not included in this story),
agricultural wastes (under the control of
the Ministry of Agriculture) and industrial
waste (under the control of both the
Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of
Oil; problems in this sector are higher than
in other sectors. As industries are reluctant
to invest in this area.);
people
10
66
I.#5
10
Imagination for the potential of
extracting energy from waste to be
considered as sidelines by decision-makers
in this area;
people
10
67
I.#9
2
Large fossil fuel resources; especially
those shared with neighboring countries
encourage the decision makers to harvest
as much more as possible;
people
10
68
I.#9
4
Lack of sufficient awareness of people
that they can use renewable resources for
cooling, heating and energy needs. It may
provide them even significant
environmental benefits. Additionally,
reducing the cost of health care that is
imposed for the use of fossil fuels can be
another impetus in this regard;
people
10
69
I.#1
4 Strategic challenges;
4
4.94%

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
70
I.#11
4
Lack of an energy development
document that can guide decision-makers
properly (long-term plan that indicates the
amount of resources and energy
consumption, as well as the share of each);
4
71
I.#12
5
Need to provide successful models
including various aspects such as
technology to convince decision-makers
for implementation of programmes to take
advantage of renewable resources (if we
divide the countries into three categories;
advanced, follower and intermediate, our
country is dominantly thought that is a
follower.);
4
72
I.#19
3 Unknown policies;
4
73
I.#5
7
Lack of decision-makers’ attentions
(biomass owners’) into environmental
disasters and the need to strengthen the
long-term insights [to the importance of the
environmental negative impacts]. If we do
not manage this subject by 2020, we must
pay relevant fine. (We are amongst the
most polluting countries in the world. we
were the seventh last year);
To move forward
2
2.47%
74
I.#8
3
Subsidies to fossil fuels; which pollutes
our environment and also creates
disadvantages to our economy. In the
world, it is said that subsidies should
usually be given to something that its use is
to be promoted. For example, subsidies to
milk is expected to increase per capita
consumption for the whole health
promotion. But, subsidy to fossil fuels, it is
like we give subsidies to smoking! High
energy consumption [intensity], low energy
savings, low efficiency in the field of
energy use, high losses in transmission
lines and all of the relevant subjects
[problems] are all because of this issue.
This causes one of the negative effects; the
Ministry of Energy does not have budget
enough to invest on alternative energy
sources. To quote from an interview with
Mr. Ali-Abadi working in Mapna
company, the annual production cost of
electricity in the country is about 38.9
million dollars, the Ministry of Energy
gains from the power sale is only about 1.3
million dollars [$1 US # 38,500 IRR]!!!;
To move forward
2

Row
Interviewee#
item#
Action to be taken
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
75
I.#17
5
Guaranteed Purchase [of electricity
produced from renewable sources];
reasonable price
2
2.47%
76
I.#5
6
Expecting too high price for guaranteed
purchase of electricity produced from
biomass on behalf of the biomass owners
such as municipal; makes it less attractive
for them, they would actually like to
provide some income through this.;
reasonable price
2
77
I.#19
2 Ineffectiveness of human resources;
To conduct indoctrination
education of related personnel
2
2.47%
78
I.#20
4
Lack of efficient and dominant human
resources;
To conduct indoctrination
education of related personnel
2
79
I.#7
1 _ _ 1
1.23%
80
I.#8
1
The most fundamental factor is the
dependency on oil economy;
To be independent of oil
economy
1
1.23%
81
I.#14
3
Lack of appropriate improvement for
the development of technology that has
been installed on a broader scale, leads to
development towards much higher. For
example, about 15 years ago, installation of
wind turbines with a power output of 660
kW was reasonable and good. Production
of many parts had occurred in the country
[domestic spare parts production].
Nevertheless stopping on the 660 kW with
the same production technology, caused
the stop in the development of the
[relevant] market;
To improve appropriately for
the development of technology
1
1.23%
4-3-3: Combined Proposed Actions to be taken relevant to Interview Questions 1 and 2

I.Q.1 - How can Iran increase the share of the
renewable energy resources in the country’s
energy system i.e. on a wider scale as a
national strategic movement?
+
expansion of applying the renewable energy
resources in Iranian industries?
Row
Action(s) to be taken
From Strategic to Other
Recommendation(s)
(Integration of Q.1 & Q.2 Answers)
Action
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
1
To prepare the infrastructure in terms of
legal and regulatory, structural,
technological, cultural, financial,
industrial, and political aspects
76 41.30%
2
To reveal real prices of fossil fuels by
removing subsidies
28 15.22%
3
To create synergy and convergence
between the responsible agencies in the
government, authorities and people
19 10.33%
4
To have documented strategic plan / To
prepare the national road map for energy
portfolio
15 8.15%
5 To move forward environmental issues 13 7.07%
6
To purchase electricity produced from
renewable energy sources guaranteed at a
reasonable price
9 4.89%
7 To stimulate competitiveness 4 2.17%
8
To optimise use of existing potential in
the country
3 1.63%
9
To conduct indoctrination education of
related personnel
2 1.09%
10
To change public credo or beliefs into the
use of renewable energy sources
1 0.54%
11
developers as a collaborator or consultant
1 0.54%
12
To create marginal market for some
renewable energy sources
1 0.54%
13
To increase the knowledge relevant to
renewable energy subject
1 0.54%
14 To pay attention to the risks 1 0.54%
15
To provide appropriate policy and
strategy for the export of electricity
produced from renewable sources
1 0.54%
16 To provide incentives 1 0.54%
17
To stimulate the demand side for matured
renewable resources
1 0.54%
18
To stimulate the supply side for immature
renewable resources
1 0.54%
19
To try to develop the possible items
[renewable sources exploitation
technologies]
1 0.54%
20
To try to increase the number of
contractors and activating them
1 0.54%
21
capabilities of existing local [domestic]
industries and experts
1 0.54%
22 To be independent of oil economy 1 0.54%
23
To improve appropriately for the
development of technology
1 0.54%
24 _ 1 0.54%

4-3-4: Interview Question 3, Answers and Analysis
Row
Interviewee
#
I.Q.3 - How far may the perception/vision of the decision makers
influence on the process of decision making towards implementing the
renewable energy projects (according to your own experience and/or
the relevant existent history)?
Very High (70%)
High (10%)
Medium (10%)
None (10%)
1
I.#1
It is very important. As an example - the appointment of Mr. Chitchian as
the Iranian Minister of Energy and positive changes in the field of
management with respect to his personal experience in the renewable
energies from 1995 -; now, with the exception of the minister himself, other
senior managers in Ministry of Energy and TAVANIR do not believe
deeply in the field of renewable energies. They consider only the
responsibility of delivering power to the people and believe that their
reputation depends on the power supply amount and no power outage.
[Actually,] they desire to supply the demanded power out of the most
available and accessible technology.
Very High
2
I.#2
A single person does not decide on renewable energy matters. The process
proceeds according to the technical documents that have been prepared by
experts, and the opinions of decision-makers, the members of
parliament's energy commission and other sectors will be taken in this
regard, as well. Therefore, we see that a person cannot influence on decision
making, individually. On the other hand, we see that when a formal
command/order on behalf of the Minister of Energy is issued and published
creating the appropriate ground for the applicants to apply in the case of
construction permits and licenses, has made investors even from abroad,
come and participate. Because fossil fuels will eventually finish. Even if not
finished, due to population increase and the resulted contamination, we are
obliged to move towards renewable energies.
Medium
3
I.#3
Because at the moment, there is no national strategic document for the use
of renewable energy unanimously accepted by the experts and approved by
the directors, the implementation, development or slowing down of
renewable energy projects depend on the mentality of people. (According to
personal experience or information). In other words, it is easily influenced
by the thoughts of individuals.
Very High
4
I.#4
It is very effective. (As per the special attention the Minister of Energy; Mr.
Chitchian, highly encouraged investors to the issue and they are widely
coming.)
Very High
5
I.#5
Their points of view are very important. Although all decision makers are
fully aware of the potential of energy recovery from waste, this subject is
not as their main concern. They suppose it marginal. Significant efforts have
been made to alert them. Some [examples] that can be noted: the
distribution of brochures, books, television and radio programmes,
seminars, representation of a pilot project that has been carried out. (But the
weight of their daily problems outweigh the issue of renewable resources.)
Very High
6
I.#6
Yes, yes, it is 100% effective. (Personal experience: Since the beginning of
the revolution until 2013, 300 kW solar power plant was installed in Iran. In
July 2013, at paragraph 69 of the Budget Law, it was approved that an
amount of 30 IRR per kilowatt electricity consumed to be collected from
customers and that income to be spent on the development of clean energy
and rural power grid development. Within just the past two years, more than
7 megawatts of solar power plants have been installed. It is the impact of the
decision makers’ vision [perception].)
Very High

Row
Interviewee#
Very High (70%)
High (10%)
Medium (10%)
None (10%)
7
I.#7
_ _
8
I.#8
It is very simple that [the perception of decision-makers] is effective;
but not everything. We saw the decision-makers who did not have the
appropriate vision and did not make the right and effectiveness decisions. If
we ignore errors [, of course]. Also, we saw [other] decision makers having
proper vision, compassion, knowledge and right approach. But
unfortunately, the existing workspace has not allowed them to move to the
required extent.
Medium
9
I.#9
Much very much. As noted in the answer to the first question. For instance,
objective and positive attitude of the High Authority of the Ministry of
Energy in this area, especially in recent months accompanied with
colleagues in SUNA and the respected management efforts, the price of
guaranteed purchase for the power [generated from the renewable sources]
has reached a degree that has caused the outstanding interest so that we
observe a very large number of applicants refer to the non-governmental
cooperation department of SUNA in order to receive permits. Therefore, if
the insight and vision of managers be in the direction of the development of
this area, the private sector and people welcome.
Very High
10
I.#10
_ _
11
I.#11
Naturally, it affects very much. Now, we see the change of attitudes e.g.
in the field of oil involved individuals. For example, your own [academic]
research or investigative/implementing work done by companies such as
BP, etc.
Very High
12
I.#12
The reality is that [it is] very high. (Their decision-makings for the
allocation of the necessary funds, to pay the relevant subsidy)
Very High
13
I.#13
It is very effective.
Decision making in the area of economic concerns is very close to oil
[economy] now. Everything is compared with oil. For example, to show the
status of renewable energies, the calculating report is oil-based and stated in
terms of the reduction amount of fossil fuels. It should be asked that if we
do not have oil, what will we do [for our calculations]? (Ministry of Energy,
the parliament, the country's planning agency, the government, etc.)
Very High
14
I.#14
It can be very important. (For instance, in the electricity production
process from waste in a city, the environmental responsible people told that
your task is polluting! While we wanted to convert 200 tons of waste into
energy. They asked, “How much is the amount of COD [Chemical Oxygen
Demand] and BOD [Biological Oxygen Demand] in the output stream?”
We responded, “Nearly 2000”. They said, “It is pollutant.” We explained
that feed of the factory - the associated factors in - contains the amount of
100,000 units and actually, it drops down to 2,000. Besides, we had no role
in their creation. As long as there is life, the waste is produced. As long as
there are cities, the waste is produced. In the end, we could not convince
them, working stopped for years!) ([Nowadays,] Courses related to
renewable energy resources are running in over 600 technical and
vocational centres in the country to alert the general public. At beginning,
these courses are running for the staff of these centres. Gradually, they will
be switched into the technical concerns such as the construction of wind
turbines and so on. Afterward, they will be resources for training other
people, themselves. Furthermore, we have in mind for those who have spent
these courses, privileges will be granted.)
Very High

Row
Interviewee#
Very High (70%)
High (10%)
Medium (10%)
None (10%)
15
I.#15
View and the status of decision-makers is very, very important. As long as
there are not their positive views; if even a job starts, it will not continue. I
think that in this regard, we are ahead by considering the beginning of
activities [regarding renewable energy sources] and the bases such as
foundation of this organisation [SUNA] about 20 years ago by Mr.
Chitchian who is now the Minister of Energy and giving the conviction to
the domain of influence in the last two years with rules that have been
enacted and the progress that has been made. In particular, and for example,
the increase of more than double the price for guaranteed purchase of
electricity.
Very High
16
I.#16
It will have a significant impact on implementation. Very High
17
I.#17
Support of senior managers and decision-makers can be quite helpful to
invite private contractors. (With meetings, professional conferences,
presence of experts and specialists in this field / benchmarking from similar
projects in other countries)
High
18
I.#18
Of course, this is very important. Finally, increasing knowledge and
insight of policymakers and decision-makers can largely facilitate the
implementation of renewable energy projects. This experience, at least in
the 13 years that I am involved has been clearly visible. In the early 2010s,
decision makers had a fancy look at the renewable energy subject, and
naturally the credit [(fund)] that was given to this sector was very low.
However now, this perception and insight largely has improved and there is
more serious look at this issue.
Nonetheless, it is more than that. Unfortunately, lots of management
changes at various levels of ministry, especially in the ninth and tenth
governments caused the spending a lot of energy [(time)] to convince the
new managers. In fact, with every change of management at the higher
level, we had to re-invent the wheel. This was the key problem. If a
comprehensive system prevails in this area, there should not be any
disturbance in the progress of projects and the development of renewable
energy use with management changes.
Very High
19
I.#19
Based on existing records: High High
20
I.#20
With each dismissal and appointment in the level of minister, assistants
and deputy directors, new policies are implemented and consequently,
institutionalized practices and demands take its own time.
Acceptance or non-acceptance of renewable technologies, research topics,
beliefs in activities in a limited and low capacity are among variable
impressions and insights of managers.
Very High

Row
Interviewee#
I.Q.4 - May the practical uses of the renewable energy resources be
taken into consideration by either of governmental companies or
private sector more successfully (according to your own experience
and/or the relevant existent history)?
Public Sector:
Infrastructure +
Immature
Technologies
Private Sector:
Mature Technologies
Yes (100%) / No
1
I.#1
To Create the pilot plants by the government to raise awareness of the
private sector and the use of domestic and foreign investors as the private
sector
Yes
2
I.#2
It is obvious that if the private sector enters, the public sector can act
better. There are limitations on public budgets, and meanwhile, the private
sector will be the end user. In some fields [of renewables], the
government should participate, but the private sector will continue to the
end. (An experience of Japan in the field of geothermal energy was
checked. The government started and promoted [the technology] to some
extent and since then, it has been privatised. That means that the research
work will be completely done by the government and then, the investors
safely followed the activities. The government tolerated the costs of
geothermal wells in Japan, in terms of test wells, production rate, and so
on, in addition, the cost of the [required] research. Then, the government
introduced the existing wells with appropriate potential to the private
sector to exploit. These wells were proved [to be appropriate].) In some
areas, the government cannot take a part. Because in terms of technical
knowledge, the necessary credit, etc., the private sector will be more
successful. This is the mission of the public sector to cover the areas
where the private sector currently does not see any benefit in.
A responsible government agency should fill the pores of technologies,
eliminate project risks to the maximum possible extent, and grow it to the
uppermost maturity level. Thereafter, the entry into the market and its
commercialization should be done by the private sector.
Yes
3
I.#3
Based on international experience and scientific models studied, we
should establish or define four domains in our infrastructure to succeed in
renewable energy subject: 1- the role of policy-making; 2- the role of
regulating; 3- the role of facilitating; 4- the role of serving.
Depending on the issue, playing role by public and private sectors are
different. Policy-making and regulating roles are inevitably governmental,
[i.e.] the government should play the role. But about the next two called
the facilitating and serving, the third one [facilitating] lies just between
the public and private sectors, and for the fourth one [serving], it is 100%
better if is done by the private sector.
Yes

Row
Interviewee#
Public Sector:
Infrastructure +
Immature
Technologies
Private Sector:
Mature Technologies
Yes (100%) / No
4
I.#4
According to previous experiences and reviewed records (such as green
power plant of Binalood), initial construction has been done by the
government and then in accordance with Article 44 of the National
Constitution, it has been transferred to the private sector. But there seems
to be a missing link. Since, the private sector cannot afford the high
amount of required investment, they attempt to find a foreign financier or
receiving loans with foreign-currencies from the National Development
Fund; which has its own problems.
Yes
5
I.#5
It is better if the public sector enter into the new categories [areas]
because of its higher risk tolerance. [On the other hand,] the private sector
due to less bureaucracy in comparison to the public sector, enters any area
very comfortably, the relevant processes are done much easier and
delivery can be occurred very well. So both sides need each other,
however the demands of both sides should be reasonable.
Yes
6
I.#6
Any public or private sectors has its own advantages and disadvantages.
(Personal experience: SUNA from 2013 was in charge in conjunction with
TAVANIR, so that the solar projects on the roofs of schools and mosques
be performed 100% free and others with 50% grant. According to a
survey, it was found that no effective actions for proper maintenance of
the installations were being done. It was because they obtained them free
of charge and had no compassion to them. Therefore, appropriate
strategies to finance in such areas should be seen by the government.) If
the private sector would like to participate, it will certainly be more
successful. Of course, this is true if there is any profit.
Yes
7
I.#7
Of course, the private sector. The government can construct the
infrastructure in this case. The private sector can enter rapidly based on
the prepared infrastructure. [The private sectors activities] include
manufacturing, technology transfer, etc.
Yes
8
I.#8
The government should develop the preliminary steps, but following the
gradual construction of the necessary infrastructure in the community, the
private sector can enter.
Yes
9
I.#9
To answer to this question, it cannot be said that only the private sector or
the public sector. Infrastructure, condition, and indeed the potential for the
development of renewable energy use must be established by the
government. Thereafter, the way for private sector participation be open.
Practically, the government should provide competitive environment with
fossil resources by reforming the price of electricity, favorable economic
issues such as [higher] return on investment, [both] from the view of the
private sector. Of course, the private sector will be willing to enter this
field. According to the study, even some countries have ministries of
renewable energies, such as India. Although the private sector plays an
important role in these countries, the government in parallel moves to
create the infrastructure and capacity required for the development of this
industry.
Yes

Row
Interviewee#
Public Sector:
Infrastructure +
Immature
Technologies
Private Sector:
Mature Technologies
Yes (100%) / No
10
I.#10
In the public sector, traditionally within the last few years, a budget for
the projects [of renewable energy] has been approved and the
development expanded proportional to the amount of that budget. But
from the perspective of the private sector, strategists are accountable to all
relevant issues such as what the land is, where and on what technology
(solar, wind and other forms of energy) the investment is better to be
done, and so on.
The private sector will be more successful. The government has limited
resources for projects. The private sector because of its nature [business]
is able to seek for the best technology at the lowest cost. It is common in
the world that the government is not a good business man. The private
sector can do business better and on the other side, pay the rights to the
government [such as tax]. Both the electricity is produced and the
corresponding tax to the government and the country is injected.
Yes
11
I.#11
Implementation of pilot and initial projects (Demonstration Plants); by the
government to open the way for public participation and continuing the
support by permanent purchasing of power or energy produced from
renewable sources;
Developing the exploitation of renewable energies by the private sector;
(initial implementation by the government encourages the private sector
and removes the disturbing concerns related to the subject);
To implement the pilot projects by the government to open the way for the
private sector participation;
To develop the exploitation of renewable energies by the private sector
(the widespread use of these resources without extensive participation of
the private sector would be impossible)
Yes
12
I.#12
For those renewable resources that are not still technologically mature and
are in the stages of pre-commercialization and demonstration, the
government must enter as a supporter to validate environment, build
community confidence and let them [-the renewable energy sources-]
prove themselves. (To supply [required] finance and budget, hardware and
software, etc.). However, for other categories [of renewable energy
sources] that have reached the commercialization stage, the private sector
[can] enter with the prediction that obtains economic benefits and has less
risk on the way.
Yes
13
I.#13
Since productivity is generally low in the public system, it is better if the
private sector would be the developer of renewable energy sources. The
government must be present in construction of the preliminary power
plants to obtain the initial experience or triggers. Because now practically
renewable energy economy is moving on the edge of a blade.
Yes
14
I.#14
There are two aspects. Of course, if the work is routine, definitely for the
development, the private sector works much more successfully than the
public sector. On the other hand, there were some areas in the country that
we did not have any relevant contractor(s). That means, no basic science
still had not been created. Among the functions of the government, that is
the responsibility for taking jobs without tenure.
Yes
15
I.#15
In areas such as biomass energy production, high investment required, and
also because their return on investment is nearly high and there are some
risks on investment, it is recommended that the government enters and
begin to work out. However, I think that in the photovoltaic and wind, this
problem is solved. Regarding geothermal, I also think that high costs
require, like biomass.
Yes

Row
Interviewee#
Public Sector:
Infrastructure +
Immature
Technologies
Private Sector:
Mature Technologies
Yes (100%) / No
16
I.#16
Of course the private sector. Meanwhile, we cannot ignore the importance
of support policies such as guaranteed purchase of electricity produced
from renewable sources, and policies to encourage people to use
renewable sources; e.g. facilities that can be provided by municipal for
citizens. (For example, the municipal announce if the citizens install
photovoltaic or wind turbines in their constructions, part of the work-
finishing document price or relevant penalty is being given up.)
Yes
17
I.#17
The government via guaranteed purchase of electricity [produced from
renewable energy sources] from private companies can contribute to the
development of renewable energies in the country through financial
support, to encourage companies to provide renewable power plants.
Yes
18
I.#18
In some branches of renewable like solar photovoltaic and wind, the
government's tenure does not help and the private sector should enter.
However in other sectors, there are still technical and technological
difficulties, the private sector does not have the capacity and willingness
for investment in these sectors and the government should attempt to
construct the related power plants. For example, in the construction of
solar thermal power plants, fuel cells, and waves.
Yes
19
I.#19
Based on existing records: Private Sector Yes
20
I.#20
With the combination of both, it is possible. It cannot be found in the
world unless the government spending billions of dollars for research and
development of new energy technologies or having the strategy document.
On the other side, the government alone is not able to proliferate in the
market and private companies accredited by the possibility of
governmental support will play an important role.
Yes

Row
Interviewee#
I.Q.5 - Are you optimistic about the development of the renewable
energy resources to replace partially or substantially (according to the
situation) fossil energy in Iran within the next five years?
Optimistic
(40%)
Incredulous
(35%)
Pessimistic
(25%)
1
I.#1
1. If the amount of 30 IRR per kilowatt hour of electricity consumed by
customers not be increased and be the only source for renewable power
purchasing, the annual construction of more than 400 to 500 megawatts of
renewable power plants will not be possible, [as a matter of fact] it is the
most reliable currently available funds or budget;
2. By the construction of 5% of the electricity demand [in Iran] of nearly
5,000 MW of renewable power plants on the horizon the sixth programme,
is planning, based on the comprehensive knowledge-based document of
renewable energies by 2024, 10% of the renewable energies portfolio will
be provided.
Incredulous
2
I.#2
According to the studies about China, Germany, the United States and
other countries within the past two, three or five years, they had not
reached to the current capacity [of renewable energies], suddenly. They
have been able to reach an acceptable level since 2005 by providing the
required infrastructure, gradual targeting in different areas and according to
their credit, investments, and technology level. That took time about 10 to
11 years. They took loans from different banks. They consulted with
various companies according to their knowledge potential. They reached
such technology level as now, they are the technology producers,
themselves. It is true that we are a country that in some cases have reached
maturity, but as mentioned above, the main competitor in this field is the
fossil fuel with low price and the budget is directed in that direction further
and further to pay subsidy. [!] Therefore, the movement towards
renewables has become slow. Of course, this matter has been felt by
decision-makers and as a result, they have come to the conclusion that the
renewable energy must be participated in the national energy portfolio. Iran
is ready to implement a win-win process, and work will be continued.
The truth is that we are optimistic with regard to the notifications and legal
infrastructure that have been provided, within a few years, Iran will come
to a sustainable growth and some part of the country's electricity demand
be supplied from renewable sources. There are various parameters
influencing on this matter. We hope that with regard to all issues that were
raised, the domestic and foreign investors put into this field. Now, what
percentage of these investments can be operational, may go beyond our
expectations. But our progress over the next 2 to 5 years is still unknown.
However, SUNA or Ministry of Energy as a governmental institution is in
charge of monitoring the work, to facilitate the participation and
investment.
Incredulous

Row
Interviewee#
Optimistic
(40%)
Incredulous
(35%)
Pessimistic
(25%)
3
I.#3
In my opinion, a small fraction of future energy needs can be met by
renewables. I do not know the phrase; "replacement", having suitable
fitness for the current subject [renewables], because the base of the
country's energy supply regarding heat, electricity and fuel; is founded on
fossil resources.
Incredulous
4
I.#4
Promising examples [positive motivations]:
1. The five-year plan to provide 5,000 megawatts of electricity from
renewable energy sources as one of the goals articulated in the country's
fifth five-year plan;
2. Incentives in the form of a grant to pay half the cost of installing rooftop
power plants from last year;
3. New approvals announced by the Minister of Energy; Mr. Chitchian,
lead to tremendous investors’ coming (even foreign investors still consider
these new tariffs highly attractive);
4. The possibility of imminent lifting of sanctions;
5. Environmental problems and obligations of international commitments
that the country will be considered in the event of non-compliance with
targets, we will be forced to pay heavy fines;
6. Hope to continue receiving 30 IRR per each kilowatt of power
consumption for the subscribed consumers to be used for the required
investment in the field of renewable energies and the guaranteed purchase
of the electricity generated from renewable energy sources;
7. LC in IRR is about to be opened (paid as deposit and withdraw six
months after production)
I believe that the private sector needs to step in his way, but a series of
special support from the government should be done. I am also of the
opinion that due to the current process regarding the current international
situation, moving towards renewable energies is a “Must”.
Optimistic
5
I.#5
We are very very optimistic. With removal of sanctions, many of the
problems that existed in the country is resolved. The foreign companies are
entering, and perhaps the term ‘competitiveness in this area’ can be
applied. There is a very bright future ahead and many of our problems will
be solved.
Optimistic
6
I.#6
Within 5 years, no. I am not optimistic within the next 50 years, still. (I
speak scientifically. EPRI has released a report which stated that in 2050,
50% of the US energy mix will be of fossil resources. USA that right now
in comparison to our country is a few hundred steps ahead. It is a country
with high potential for renewable resources. It has the technology
appropriately.)
Pessimistic
7
I.#7
We are optimistic, God willing. I predict a great future in this area. Optimistic

Row
Interviewee#
Optimistic
(40%)
Incredulous
(35%)
Pessimistic
(25%)
8
I.#8
NO. {Of course, in terms of personality, people around me say, “you're an
optimistic person.” The “no” is said by the person who is optimistic,
himself. If I ignore the short-term, I can say that I am optimistic. Because
we are forced to go towards renewable energies. However, within the next
five years, there needs to a series of necessary infrastructure which
unfortunately does not exist now, if we try to reach our objectives in the
field of renewable energy. It seems optimistic if we are able to create the
required infrastructure within the next 5 years to some. Part of it is the
social and cultural infrastructures (international pressures on environmental
pollutants, etc.), and the other part is the economic infrastructure (removal
of the concern of many debt being in mind of the managers of the Ministry
of Energy and ...)}
Pessimistic
9
I.#9
A straight answer as "Yes" or "No" cannot be given. It depends on the
economic and internationally political situation of the country. [It depends
on the] extent we can facilitate the development of capacity of the industry
to develop renewable energies to replace part of the fossil fuels. Indeed, the
fifth question is a summary of the [four] questions raised earlier. Now, the
attractiveness of investment in renewable sources is low. Related industry
is unknown, while fossil fuel power plants, features and bindings are more
routine and more available. However, considering all the current
circumstances, taking very important steps by the Ministry of Energy in the
purchase of electricity produced from renewable sources, welcoming very
well by the private sector investors from the industry, actually within the
next five years if the country's international status regarding the sanctions
to be adjusted, we will see a great development in the country, therefore
these resources will be added to the country's energy production portfolio.
Incredulous
10
I.#10
I am quite optimistic as having a share of the total portfolio for renewable
energy in the country, and not to replace the whole. Even in the countries
like Germany and the United States, they are not planned for more than
30% [on renewable sources]. Because the fossil [energy] has its own
advantages, it is more stable. For example, if the wind does not blow,
weather is cloudy, i.e. if climate change occurs, we will face with problem
for electricity generation [from renewable sources]. The recent
amendments to the guaranteed purchase of electricity, it has improved [the
situation] and I am very optimistic for the development.
Optimistic
11
I.#11
Development and replacement of fossil fuels with renewable is something
that cannot be done over one night. Nevertheless, it should be gradually
studied and investigated to come over to achieve desired results. If the
entire contents which have been stated [in previous answers], be carried out
properly, perhaps we are to be able to produce about 5,000 megawatts of
electricity from renewable resources by the next 5 years that of course, this
step is very large itself. Introductory actions [Preparations] for the use of
the renewable energy sources for the electricity industry have been
executed. That means the government purchases the produced electricity
[from renewable sources] and investors are encouraged to contract. It is
also necessary to mention that even countries that are windy and have an
appropriate investment in this area, perhaps 15% of their electricity
demand is supplied from wind energy which in fact, because of the
capacity factor, it reaches about 5% of the whole share. While fossil power
plant capacity factor is between 60 to 70 percent. For example, if we try to
supply the total energy demand of a house from a solar water heater, it will
practically and economically be impossible.
Incredulous

Row
Interviewee#
Optimistic
(40%)
Incredulous
(35%)
Pessimistic
(25%)
12
I.#12
Although there are current protective laws such as the allocation of 30 IRR
per kilowatt of electricity consumption for renewable resources
development investment, formulation of objectives for the development of
renewable sources in the planning document for the next five years, and so
on, considering the current situation, it does not seem to have a significant
growth [jump] in this area within the next five years.
Pessimistic
13
I.#13
Within the next five years from today (we are almost on zero point), we
will be far ahead (through providing infrastructure, laboratories,
development of domestic production, the construction of a significant
number of renewable power plants, etc.); of course, in the event that we
continue taking the current steps and the government can provide the
necessary resources. Although it will not be able to say that a good
percentage of our energy mix will be supplied from renewable sources.
([Because of] low coefficient of renewable electricity generation plants
capacity in comparison with [those of] fossil fuels, no electricity
production in wind power plants in the absence of wind, and/or zero power
production by solar power plant in the absence of solar radiation.)
On the other hand, we do not see a significant development in our own
country like countries, such as Germany, China (which because of the
vastness of the country, both for domestic use as well as for global exports,
has created industry that can achieve this goal [development of renewable
energy use]), and even Spain (though Spain was not too successful.
Because they proceeded in some sections without any programme and they
did not predict some requirements for services and so on).
Incredulous
14
I.#14
Iran has a great potential in the field of renewable resources. These cases
can be noted: good wind, very good sun radiation, 100 to 150 million tons
of annual agricultural waste, more than 15 million tons of annual waste in
the cities, billions of cubic meters of wastewater. Iran is the seventh
producer of greenhouse gases in the world, compared to the population and
our industry, we are one of the highest polluters in the world and certainly
in the future, a lot of pressure on these countries, including our country will
apply in this regard. On the other hand, all oil-exporting countries and
OPEC will be at the spearhead of these pressures. Because, it will be said
that in exchange for greenhouse gas emissions for oil and gas production,
you must be a part of the fines and compensation for damage.
Actually, in attention to the huge resources of oil and gas in the country,
we should not only be looking for alternative renewable sources. But we
must seek primarily to create employment that occur along the extension of
the technology to export to neighboring countries and such goals. [We
should be careful that] tomorrow, our country will not become depot
(storehouse) for obsolete wind turbines.
Optimistic
15
I.#15
I am very optimistic. (According to current trend that we are observing and
the changes in the terms of substantial amount of enthusiastic contractors,
the probable removal of sanctions and the willingness of foreign investors,
particularly in the use of renewable resources. We do not suppose a
tremendous leap forward. However, the industry moves and begins to
grow. The slope of growth may not be very high, but it will be forward.)
Optimistic
16
I.#16
I'm optimistic. Nonetheless, 30 IRR per kilowatt power consumption to
invest on renewable energy field is a temporary treatment. The ultimate
success is achieved by reforming energy prices (to actual).
Optimistic

Row
Interviewee#
Optimistic
(40%)
Incredulous
(35%)
Pessimistic
(25%)
17
I.#17
If the private sector to invest in this area and foreign companies to activate
after the removal of sanctions on Iran, the possibility of expanding the use
of renewable energy sources as an alternative to some of the power plants
will rise.
Incredulous
18
I.#18
Yes, I am one hundred percent optimistic of course, to supply part of the
energy requirements [from renewable energy sources]. By the way, the
reform in purchase of renewable electricity tariff promises that the private
sector is more fortunate on this side. On the other side, the lifting of
sanctions and entry of the technology owners into the country for
investment in the energy sector can be influential in the development of
renewable energy.
Optimistic
19
I.#19
No. Pessimistic
20
I.#20
Not as a complete replacement. It is possible around a very small
percentage of total energy demand of the country for a special network far
from the national grid.
Pessimistic

CHAPTER 5: DISCUSSIONS AND RESULTS
5-1: Propositions, Discussions and Results
As mentioned in section 1-2-3, ten propositions have been postulated in this research to be
investigated. There are conceptual direct, indirect and/or both direct and indirect relationships
between all decision-making factors and most of propositions (Pr.-1 to Pr.-8) as well as between
answers to interview questions (I.Q.-1 to I.Q.-4) and all the propositions. The following figures
show these relationships overall. Thereafter, more discussions together with the relevant tables
and then, the obtained results i.e. whether the proposition being investigated is supported or
rejected are presented.

Figure 5-0001: Relationships between Propositions and Decision-Making Factors/Answers to Interview
Questions

Figure 5-0002: Relationships between Propositions and Decision-Making Factors

Figure 5-0003: Relationships between Propositions and Answers to Interview Questions

5-1-1: Investigations and Discussions about each Proposition
5-1-1-1: Proposition 1 (Pr.-1)
Fear of negative impact on stability and continuity of production as a result of
implementing renewable energy projects is the hardest hurdle for decision makers to take a
positive attitude toward renewable energy.
Discussions:
The following factors influence directly (P-1, N-1, N-3, N-6, and N-7) or indirectly (P-7, P-19, P-
23, N-11, N-12, N-13, N-15, and N-17) on this proposition:
No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
7.469231 Total Mean
P-7 Rank 4-2 13.354% 8.466667
P-19 Rank 11 -7.175% 6.933333
Intensity
P-23 Rank 14 -33.059% 5.000000
Culture
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
Standard
Deviation
RankingNo.
Total Mean6.850000
8.60000025.547%Rank 1N-1
the Project(s)
8.53333324.574%Rank 2-2N-3
Systems
7.93333315.815%Rank 5N-6
7.80000013.869%Rank 6N-7
6.466667-5.596%Rank 10N-11
Systems
6.200000-9.489%Rank 11N-12

6.066667-11.436%Rank 12N-13
Special Skills
5.933333-13.382%Rank 14N-15
Special Trainings
5.733333-16.302%Rank 16N-17
Result:
This proposition is highly supported. Five factors directly and eight factors indirectly affect this
proposition and indeed, support it. In addition, both uppermost evaluations for positive and
negative factors i.e. P-1 and N-1 directly influence on this proposition, supportively.
Implementation experience in other companies plays a highly important role to raise the
perceptional confidence or assurance in the decision making process.
Discussions:
The following factor influences directly (P-2) on this proposition:
No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
7.469231 Total Mean
P-2 Rank 2 19.602% 8.933333
Companies
Result:
This proposition is highly supported. The second positive factor i.e. P-2 (Implementation
History and Background in Other Companies) directly affects this proposition and indeed,

supports it. It has actually the second evaluation level resulted from questionnaire survey. In
addition, according to the answers to the fourth interview question presented in section 4-3-5, all
the interviewees (100% of all) believed that the government should start working on the immature
technologies relevant to renewable energy resources and thereafter, the private sector might be
replaced. This can be considered as a history and background in the level of the whole country.
Therefore, their opinions conceptually support this proposition, as well.
Being able to recognize which type of renewable energy is usable can be a significant
contributing factor to facilitate the decision making process.
Discussions:
The following factors influence directly (P-3, P-12) on this proposition:
No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
7.469231 Total Mean
P-3 Rank 3-1 14.246% 8.533333
Potential Renewable Energy Resources / Type of
Usable Renewable Energy
P-12 Rank 7-1 10.676% 8.266667
Potential Renewable Energy Resources / Amount of
Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s)
Result:
This proposition is highly supported. Two positive factors i.e. P-3 and P-12 directly affect this
proposition and indeed, support it. The former has actually the third evaluation level (Rank 3-1)
resulted from questionnaire survey. In addition, according to the answers to the first and second
interview questions presented in sections 4-3-1/4-3-2/4-3-3, the interviewees refers to an strategic

need i.e. “To have documented strategic plan / To prepare the national road map for energy
portfolio” fifteen times. Moreover, three opinions propose “To optimise use of existing
potential in the country” which directly supports this proposition. Therefore, all of their
opinions presented in the answers conceptually and strongly support this proposition, as well.
Historical experience record on energy efficiency promotion on the ground of lower energy
consumption and/or higher energy harvest influences on the prioritisation and approval of
renewable energy projects.
Discussions:
The following factors influence directly (P-4, P-5, P-13, P-16, and P-17) or indirectly (P-9 and P-
18) on this proposition:
No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
7.469231 Total Mean
P-9 Rank 5-2 12.461% 8.400000
P-13 Rank 7-2 10.676% 8.266667
_ (3rd.) Company Level
P-16 Rank 9-1 5.321% 7.866667
_ (2nd.) Unit/Plant Level
P-17 Rank 9-2 5.321% 7.866667
_ (1st.) Equipment Level
P-18 Rank 10 4.428% 7.800000
Potential for Replacement with More Available
Energy Carrier
Result:

This proposition is highly supported. Five factors directly and two factors indirectly affect this
proposition and indeed, support it. In addition, both third level evaluations rated for two positive
factors i.e. P-4 and P-5 (Ranks 3-2 and 3-3) directly influence on this proposition, supportively.
Furthermore, one of the interviewees refers his opinion i.e. “To be independent of oil economy”
which directly support this proposition.
Improvement in financial and economic parameters such as revenue, benefit amount, and
investment savings can have extensive impact upon making decisions for including
renewable energy projects in portfolio.
Discussions:
The following factors influence directly (P-4, P-5, P-6, P-8, P-11, P-14, P-21, N-1, N-2, N-3, N-4,
N-5, N-8, N-11, N-12, N-13, N-14, N-15, N-16, N-17, N-18, N-19, and N-20) or indirectly (P-1,
P-7, P-9, P-15, and N-7) on this proposition:
No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
7.469231 Total Mean
P-6 Rank 4-1 13.354% 8.466667 Financial and Economic Parameters / Revenue
P-7 Rank 4-2 13.354% 8.466667
P-8 Rank 5-1 12.461% 8.400000
Financial and Economic Parameters / Benefit
Amount
P-9 Rank 5-2 12.461% 8.400000
P-11 Rank 6-2 11.569% 8.333333
Potential for Replacement with Cheaper Energy
Carrier

P-14 Rank 8-1 7.999% 8.066667
Financial and Economic Parameters / Increase of
Fossil Energy Resources Costs
P-15 Rank 8-2 7.999% 8.066667
Impact on Environmental Issues / Decrease of the
Environmental Wastes
P-21 Rank 12-2 -16.993% 6.200000
Financial and Economic Parameters / Opportunities
or Potentials for Using Governmental Subsidies
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
Standard
Deviation
RankingNo.
Total Mean6.850000
8.60000025.547%Rank 1N-1
the Project(s)
8.53333324.574%Rank 2-2N-3
Systems
7.93333315.815%Rank 5N-6
7.80000013.869%Rank 6N-7
Financial and Economic Parameters / Investment
Amount
7.73333312.895%Rank 7N-8
6.466667-5.596%Rank 10N-11
Systems
6.200000-9.489%Rank 11N-12
6.066667-11.436%Rank 12N-13
6.000000-12.409%Rank 13N-14
Special Skills
5.933333-13.382%Rank 14N-15
5.800000-15.328%Rank 15N-16
Special Trainings
5.733333-16.302%Rank 16N-17
5.066667-26.034%Rank 17-1N-18
Necessity of Receiving the Licensor's Permission5.066667-26.034%Rank 17-2N-19
Trainings
4.933333-27.981%Rank 18N-20

Result:
This proposition is vastly supported. Actually, many factors besides the opinions of many
interviewees support this proposition. Twenty three factors directly and five factors indirectly
affect this proposition and in other words, support it strongly. In addition, uppermost evaluations
for positive and negative factors i.e. P-4, P-5, N-1, N-2, N-3, and N-4 directly influence on this
proposition, supportively. Furthermore, many interviewees declare directly and indirectly to the
financial subjects. Some of their direct referrings have been paraphrased here which are listed in
sections 4-3-1/4-3-2/4-3-3, as well. They are:
1. To prepare the infrastructure in terms of legal and regulatory, structural, technological,
cultural, financial, industrial, and political aspects;
2. To reveal real prices of fossil fuels by removing subsidies;
3. To purchase electricity produced from renewable energy sources guaranteed at a reasonable
price;
4. To create marginal market for some renewable energy sources;
5. To provide appropriate policy and strategy for the export of electricity produced from renewable
sources;
6. To be independent of oil economy
Predicted time required to produce outcomes, positive influence, and life expectancy of
renewable energy recovery are amongst highest priorities in decision making activities.
Discussions:
The following factors influence directly (N-2, N-4, and N-5) or indirectly (N-9 and N-10) on this
proposition:

Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
Standard
Deviation
RankingNo.
Total Mean6.850000
Implementation Needs / Internal (Domestic)
Opportunities
7.4000008.029%Rank 8N-9
Implementation Needs / External (International)
Opportunities
6.800000-0.730%Rank 9N-10
Result:
This proposition is supported. Three factors directly and two factors indirectly affect this
proposition and in other words, support it intensely. The first two relevant negative factors i.e. N-
2 and N-4 have the second and the third rankings evaluated by the questionnaire respondents.
Necessity for great changes in current production systems can impact the psychology of
decision makers in their prioritisation and approval.
Discussions:
The following factors influence directly (N-6) or indirectly (N-1, N-3, N-7, N-12, N-14, and N-
16) on this proposition:
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
Standard
Deviation
RankingNo.
Total Mean6.850000
8.60000025.547%Rank 1N-1
the Project(s)
8.53333324.574%Rank 2-2N-3

Systems
7.93333315.815%Rank 5N-6
7.80000013.869%Rank 6N-7
Systems
6.200000-9.489%Rank 11N-12
6.000000-12.409%Rank 13N-14
5.800000-15.328%Rank 15N-16
Result:
This proposition is supported. One factor directly and six factors indirectly affect this
proposition and in other words, support it. The direct influencing factor i.e. N-6 has the fifth rank
as the result of the assessment done by the questionnaire respondents with a +15.815% deviation
from the negative factors’ Total Mean. Therefore, the evaluation is considerable.
Improvement of public knowledge and awareness pertaining to the advantages of renewable
energy resources can impact favorably the decision making.
Discussions:
The following factors influence directly (P-2, P-24, and P-25) or indirectly (P-10, P-19, P-20, P-
22, P-23, P-26, N-11, N-13, N-14, N-15, N-16, N-17, N-18, and N-20) on this proposition:
No. Ranking
Standard
Deviation
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
7.469231 Total Mean
P-2 Rank 2 19.602% 8.933333
Companies
P-10 Rank 6-1 11.569% 8.333333
and Strategy / Support from Company's Policy

P-19 Rank 11 -7.175% 6.933333
Intensity
P-20 Rank 12-1 -16.993% 6.200000
and Strategy / Support from National Policy
P-22 Rank 13 -20.563% 5.933333
Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of
the Projects]
P-23 Rank 14 -33.059% 5.000000
Culture
P-24 Rank 15 -36.629% 4.733333
Knowledge Improvement / Personnel(s)' Knowledge
Improvement
P-25 Rank 16 -39.307% 4.533333
Knowledge Improvement / National Knowledge
Improvement
P-26 Rank 17 -40.199% 4.466667 Impact on Cultural Issues / Impact on Social Culture
Mean of
Respondents'
Evaluations
(10 to 1 scale)
Standard
Deviation
RankingNo.
Total Mean6.850000
6.466667-5.596%Rank 10N-11
6.066667-11.436%Rank 12N-13
6.000000-12.409%Rank 13N-14
Special Skills
5.933333-13.382%Rank 14N-15
5.800000-15.328%Rank 15N-16
Special Trainings
5.733333-16.302%Rank 16N-17
5.066667-26.034%Rank 17-1N-18
Trainings
4.933333-27.981%Rank 18N-20
Result:
This proposition is highly supported. Three positive factors directly and fourteen factors
indirectly affect this proposition and indeed, support it. Furthermore, many interviewees declare
directly and indirectly the necessity of “improvement of public knowledge and awareness”.
Essential comments are referred to hereunder. (Listed in sub-section 4-3-3, as well)

1. To reap on synergy and convergence between the responsible agencies in the government,
authorities and people;
2. To have documented strategic plan / To prepare the national road map for energy
portfolio;
3. To conduct indoctrination education of related personnel;
4. To change public credo or beliefs into the use of renewable energy sources;
5. To increase the knowledge relevant to renewable energy subject
A significant relationship is assumed to exist between decision-makers’ perceptions or
visions towards implementing renewable energy projects and their final decisions.
Discussions:
According to the answers to the third interview question which asks directly the concept of this
proposition presented in section 4-3-4, except for two inteviewees (10% of them), ninety percent
of them confirmed the existence of this relationship i.e. “the relationship between decision-
makers’ perceptions or visions towards implementing renewable energy projects and their
final decisions”. Their opinions about the estimated amount of this relationship have been
integrated and converted into the following results:
Very high = 70%, High = 10%, Medium = 10%, Low = 0%, None (No Relationships) = 10%
Result:
This proposition is highly supported. The majority of the interviewees i.e. 70% of them,
confirmed directly and powerfully this proposition.

In addition, this proposition has conceptual relationships with the research questions, three
probabilities and three probable outcomes as shown in the following figure:
Figure 5-0004: Theoretical Framework for Proposition-9 _ Relationships among R.Q.’s,
Improbable/Probable Status and Outcomes
Findings:
As mentioned before, there are two kinds of influencers or factors founded on their types of
impacts, i.e. positive and negative. The problem investigated in this thesis is that there seems to
be no motive force for prioritisation and approval of renewable energy (RE) projects in the
portfolios of most energy consumers or companies in Iran. Combining the two types of
influencers and the existing reality, three probabilities (P1, P2 and P3) can be derived and
consequently three outcomes may be generated respectively; as follow:
Probability 1: The effect of negative influencers is perceived stronger by decision makers than
that of positive ones. That is the reason why the problem exists.

Probability 2: The effect of negative influencers is perceived weaker by decision makers than
that of positive ones. Therefore, the problem exists just because of the decision-makers’ own
desires or insights.
Probability 3: The effect of negative influencers is perceived nearly equal to that of positive
ones by decision makers. Therefore, the decision-making process seems to be in a transient status.
That means the problem may be solved through spending some effective effort.
Outcomes:
Outcome 1: If probability-1 is probable, at the first step the negative influencers can be sorted
based on their impacts. Secondly, some solutions or suggestions should be proposed for reduction
of their negative impacts on perceptions.
Outcome 2: If probability-1 is improbable, probability-2 may be probable. If probability-2 is
probable, using proper decision-making technique or strategy in addition to some helpful
techniques according to the applied portfolio management knowledge, a trustful mechanism can
be generated and proposed to decision-makers. Actually, this status was the main objective or the
first predicted outcome of the current thesis.
Outcome 3: If probability-3 is probable, some applicable methods are to be proposed for
facilitating the process of decision-making towards execution and implementation of renewable
energy projects.
According to the results obtained from the questionnaire respondents represented in section 4-2,
the total mean of the evaluations rated for positive factors has been 7.47 within the range of 0~10;
whereas it has been 6.85 for negative ones. Therefore, the second probability seems to be

probable and consequently, the second outcome is presumed to occur. In other words, it is very
reasonable if some strategic recommendations or action plans to be offered to promote the
decision-making process relevant to the renewable energy use projects.
5-1-1-10: Proposition 10 (Pr.-10)
Nationwide promotion of practical uses and optimum utilization of renewable energy can be
taken into place more successfully by governmental companies in comparison to private
sector companies.
Discussions:
As presented in section 4-3-5, the concept of this proposition is entirely compatible to the fourth
interview question. All interviewees believed that it was not a yes/no question type and indeed, it
was a kind of exploratory questions. Their opinions as a whole may be summarized as below:
A. Regarding challenge to immature renewable energy technologies: In the face of
targeted renewable energy technologies being not in a mature stage, the government is
in a better position to initiate the required activities such as feasibility studies, creating
the pilot plants and so on, make the appropriate infrastructure, etc. When the
commercialization environment has reached reasonable and trustful state, commercial
deployment should be hand-over to the private sector.
B. Regarding mature renewable energy technologies: The private sector can undoubtedly
play the main role for the whole story.
Combination of A and B: The government is recommended to start and promote the immature
technologies to some reasonable extent and since then, it can be
privatised.

Result:
This proposition is highly rejected
5-2: Strategic Recommendations and Proposed Action Plans
As presented in section 4-3-3, some strategic recommendations and action plans have been
obtained according to the deducing and integrating the interviewees’ answers to the first two
interview questions as follow:
Row
Strategic Recommendations
and Proposed Action Plans
Actions
Frequency
Frequency
Percentage
1
To prepare the infrastructure in terms of legal and regulatory, structural,
technological, cultural, financial, industrial, and political aspects
76 41.30%
2 To reveal real prices of fossil fuels by removing subsidies 28 15.22%
3
To create synergy and convergence between the responsible agencies in the
19 10.33%
4
To have documented strategic plan / To prepare the national road map for
energy portfolio
15 8.15%
5 To move forward environmental issues 13 7.07%
6
To purchase electricity produced from renewable energy sources guaranteed at a
reasonable price
9 4.89%
7 To stimulate competitiveness 4 2.17%
8 To optimise use of existing potential in the country 3 1.63%
9 To conduct indoctrination education of related personnel 2 1.09%
10 To change public credo or beliefs into the use of renewable energy sources 1 0.54%
11 To cooperate with international developers as a collaborator or consultant 1 0.54%
12 To create marginal market for some renewable energy sources 1 0.54%
13 To increase the knowledge relevant to renewable energy subject 1 0.54%
14 To pay attention to the risks 1 0.54%
15
To provide appropriate policy and strategy for the export of electricity produced
from renewable sources 1 0.54%
16 To provide incentives 1 0.54%
17 To stimulate the demand side for matured renewable resources 1 0.54%
18 To stimulate the supply side for immature renewable resources 1 0.54%
19 To try to develop the possible items [renewable sources exploitation technologies] 1 0.54%
20 To try to increase the number of contractors and activating them 1 0.54%
21
To try to make good use of the capabilities of existing local [domestic] industries and
experts
1 0.54%
22 To be independent of oil economy 1 0.54%
23 To improve appropriately for the development of technology 1 0.54%
24 _ 1 0.54%

CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION
6-1: Conclusion
The current research study has provided a clear picture and better insight into the decision-making
process associated with the renewable energy projects by categorizing, evaluating, and rating the
assumedly positive and negative factors according to their degrees of impact. This study explored
forty six factors founded on nineteen aspects as the essential decision-making elements that lead to
prioritization and approval of the renewable energy projects within the context of energy security.
The analysis was done qualitatively and both primary and secondary cases were used for purpose
as the units for investigations.
The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) model developed by Saaty (1980) has been used as the
most appropriate model for configuring the whole body of this research. As per shown in figure 2-
0002, there are three levels for AHP. The uppermost level is the goal. The main goal of this
research is to find evident and scientific guidelines, strategic recommendations, and/or action
plans as logic, algorithym, desire, emergency, motivation, legislation, and/or even legal obligation
in order to define, prioritise, and approve the implementation of renewable energy projects in
industrial companies e.g. natural gas refineries in Iran. The middle level belongs to the criteria.
The criteria in this research are actually the aforementioned decision-making factors. Finally, the
bottom level mentions the alternatives which can be materialised and considered as the strategic
recommendations and action plans offered in this study. The AHP flowchart was introduced by
Sue Men (2011) as per shown in figure 2-0003 in which four steps had been stated. The first step
i.e. “Identify parameters and sub-parameters”; is actually the same as decision-making aspects
and factors which have been listed in this research. The second step i.e. “Build hierarchy
structure”; has been accomplished by referring to the energy managers and/or senior energy
experts working in the first case of study as the primary units of analysis. The third step i.e.
“Perform pair-wise comparison”; has been done according to assumedly positive and negative

impacts of the aspects and factors as per shown their force yield views in figure 4-0001. The final
step i.e. “Calculate relative weight”; has been executed through an assessment via questionnaires
requesting the respondents to evaluate each factor on a 0~10 scale. Thereafter, all forty six factors
were sorted in a descending order according to the mean value of each factor ratings. The findings
have been shown in section 4-2.
Figure 6-0001: What Has Been Done in This Research based on AHP (Analytical Hierarchy Process)
Decision-Making Theory
According to the mean of ratings resulted from the questionnaires and findings obtained from
interviews, these principle consequences have been attained as follow:
1. The total mean of the evaluations rated for positive factors has been 7.47 within the range
of 0~10; whereas it has been 6.85 for negative ones. That means the effect of negative
influencers is perceived weaker by decision makers than that of positive ones. Therefore,
the problem exists just because of the decision-makers’ own desires or insights. Hence, it is

completely reasonable that some applicable recommendations and action plans are to be
proposed for facilitating the process of decision-making towards execution and
implementation of renewable energy projects. On the other hand, 90% of interviewees
based on their professional experience confirmed that the perception/vision of the decision-
makers influence the process of decision making towards implementing the renewable
energy projects. (Opinions ratings of the insight impact degree on decision-making process:
70% very high, 10% high, and 10% medium.) In other words, there is a significant
relationship between decision-makers’ perceptions towards implementing renewable energy
projects and their final decisions. Furthermore, while answering to the fifth interview
question i.e. “Are you optimistic about the development of the renewable energy resources
to replace partially or substantially (according to the situation) fossil energy in Iran within
the next five years?” the interviewees were 40% optimistic, 35% doubtful, and 25%
pessimistic. Therefore, there is definitely room for improvement on decision-makers’
perceptions regarding the prioritization and approval of the renewable energy projects.
2. Regarding the implementation of renewable energy projects, 100% of the interviewees
believed, “The government is recommended to start and promote the immature technologies
to some reasonable extent and since then, it can be privatised.” Considering that all of the
natural gas refineries in Iran are currently government owned, this recommendation may be
paraphrased this way, “The Iranian natural gas processing companies are recommended to
start and promote the matured and/or immature renewable energy technologies to some
reasonable extent and since then, it can be out-sourced.”
3. As per shown in section 4-2 and illustrated in figures 4-0005 and 4-0006, all top ten
rankings for positive and negative decision-making factors (except for the ninth and the
tenth rankings for the negative ones) have positive standard deviations with respect to the
mean values of their categorised groups i.e. positive and negative factors, in fact from

+21.387% to +4.428% for positive factors and from +25.547% to -5.596% for negative
ones. In other words, the following interpretations can be induced based on their perceived
importance:
3.1. Fear of negative impact on amount, stability, and continuity of production as a result
of implementing renewable energy projects is the hardest struggle for decision makers
to take a positive attitude toward renewable energy. Through another perspective, the
positive impact on the traditional energy production equipment lifetime replaced by
renewable facilities is perceived as the uppermost influencer among all positive
factors. Indeed, the prolonged essential equipment’s lifetime secures and influences
positively on the continuity of production. In this case, they can be considered as
reliable stand-by equipment for emergency situations.
3.2. Implementation experience in other companies plays a highly important role to raise
the perceptional confidence or assurance in the decision making process.
3.3. Existing potential or being able to recognize which type of renewable energy is usable
can be a significant contributing factor to facilitate the decision making process.
3.4. Historical experience record on energy efficiency promotion on the ground of lower
energy consumption and/or higher energy harvest resulted from more replacements of
fossils by renewables influences on the prioritisation and approval of renewable
energy projects.
3.5. Improvement in financial and economic parameters such as revenue, benefit amount,
and investment savings can have extensive impact upon making decisions for
including renewable energy projects in portfolio.
3.6. The degree of support from the companies’ policy and strategy regarding the
implementation of the renewable energy projects has substantial prominence.

3.7. Positive impact on environmental issues is a contributing parameter to promote the
decision-making consequences regarding the renewable energy projects.
3.8. Predicted time required to produce outcomes, positive influence, and life expectancy
of renewable energy recovery are amongst highest priorities in decision making
activities.
3.9. Necessity for great changes in current production systems can impact the psychology
of decision makers in their prioritisation and approval.
3.10. Uncertainties and hesitations regarding how to supply the implementation needs for
renewable energy projects domestically and/or internationally have negative impacts
on the decision-makers.
4. The following strategic recommendations and action plans for implementing the renewable
energy projects are proposed based on the amount of insistence and persistence stated by
the interviewees:
4.1. To prepare the infrastructure in terms of legal and regulatory, structural,
technological, cultural, financial, industrial, and political aspects
4.2. To reveal real prices of fossil fuels by removing subsidies
4.3. To create synergy and convergence between the responsible agencies in the
4.4. To have documented strategic plan / To prepare the national road map for energy
portfolio
4.5. To move forward environmental issues
4.6. To purchase electricity produced from renewable energy sources guaranteed at a
reasonable price
4.7. To stimulate competitiveness
4.8. To optimise use of existing potential in the country

4.9. To conduct indoctrination education of related personnel
4.10. To change public credo or beliefs into the use of renewable energy sources
4.11. To cooperate with international developers as a collaborator or consultant
4.12. To create marginal market for some renewable energy sources
4.13. To increase the knowledge relevant to renewable energy subject
4.14. To pay attention to the risks
4.15. To provide appropriate policy and strategy for the export of electricity produced
from renewable sources
4.16. To provide incentives
4.17. To stimulate the demand side for matured renewable resources
4.18. To stimulate the supply side for immature renewable resources
4.19. To try to develop the possible items [renewable sources exploitation technologies]
4.20. To try to increase the number of contractors and activating them
4.21. To try to make good use of the capabilities of existing local [domestic] industries
and experts
4.22. To be independent of oil economy
4.23. To improve appropriately for the development of technology
6-2: Limitations
1. This exploratory research has demonstrated the influencing aspects/factors on the process
of prioritisation and approval of renewable energy projects founded on the literature
review done by the researcher. Although I tried my best to do a comprehensive research
in order to make a complete set of the recognized relevant factors, it might be possible
that some were missing or not included. Therefore, I requested from all the questionnaire

respondents to supplement any more factor(s) to the existing list if they knew something
new so as not being considered among the introduced forty six factors which I had
collected. However, they proposed nothing more. As the final statement regarding this
matter, there may be room for other researchers to approach the subject from
supplementary cognitive viewpoints.
2. I expected to receive hundreds of responded questionnaires from my colleagues working in
the natural gas refineries plus similar companies in conjunction with the Petroleum
Ministry of Iran to do a quantitative analysis, as well. Unfortunately, despite all my effort
and alternative requests and remindings, I could obtain only fifteen completed
questionnaires. Therefore, I obliged to conduct a qualitative investigation on the subject. In
other words, the findings do not lead to statistical generalization.
3. As exploratory research, the study does not provide evidence that would lead to
conclusions concerning causality in the inter-relationship between the aspects/factors. It
shows their perceived impacts on the prioritisation and approval of renewable energy
projects. The research empirical evidence has been based on literature review and case
studies relying upon questionnaires and interviews. Consequently, the research has been
predicated on multisource and multimethod approaches. This was not a longitudinal study.
Opportunities were not available for the observation of the research phenomenon.

CHAPTER 7: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE INVESTIGATIONS
1. Further research in this area should focus on causal effects between the aforementioned
decision making factors for prioritisation and approval of renewable energy projects (the
inter-relationships) and the current situation in the targeted companies. In other words, this
research could be continued in order to understand and accommodate the relative
significance of correlational relationship between the independent and dependent decision-
making factors as variables to be recognaized and investigated.
2. Some quantitative research approaches can move this research to the next level much more
deeply and intensely in future.
3. By means of some professional techniques such as the SWOT matrix, it is recommended to
analyse more deeply the strategic situation of the targeted companies to define, execute and
monitor the real strategic actions, plans, and/or projects to facilitate substantially the
decision making process for prioritisation and approval of the renewable energy projects in
the project portfolio.

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Group: 5.
(2012) Ad Lucem: Modeling Market Transformation Pathways Workshop - Captures of the Sun-Shot.
Berkeley, California: 6.
(2012) CFP for Actions under the Programme, Intelligent Energy-Europe: 30.
(2012) "Decision Making and Implementation Tools for Delivery of Local & Regional Bio-Energy Chains
(MAKE-IT-BE) Projects." 28.
(2012) Evaluating policies in support of the deployment of renewable power (IRENA). 24
(2012) Financing Renewable Energy in Developing Countries: Case Study of sub-Saharan-Africa. 56
(2012) IEA sees renewable energy growth accelerating over next 5 years, International Energy Agency: 2.
(2012) IEA: Energy Technology Perspectives - Pathways to a Clean Energy System. 10
(2012) IEA: World Energy Outlook_2012_Chapter 7: Renewables: 32.
(2012) Implementation Strategy for a Global Solar and Wind Atlas (IRENA). 26
(2012) Integrated Assessment Tools for Small Scale Renewable Energy Projects - Regional Training
Workshop - General Principles of EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment),
IUCN Environmental Law Centre: 5.
(2012) Leasing Municipal and Private Property for Solar: Key Steps and Considerations. U. D. O. Energy:
6.
(2012) Ocean Renewable Energy Industry Needs Input: Oregon Wave Energy. 7
(2012) Policy Options for Energy Security and Sustainable Development: 7.
(2012) Project Management Glossary.
(2012) Renewable Energy Desalination in MENA. Washington D.C., the World Bank.
(2012) "Renewable Energy in the Asia Pacific: A Legal Overview." 20.
(2012) Results of the UNEP Foresight Process on Emerging Environmental Issues. 60
(2012) Roadmap for Incorporating Energy Efficiency - Renewable Energy Policies and Programmes into
State and Tribal Implementation Plans. U. E. P. Agency: 43.
(2012) SUNA: History & objectives of Iran Renewable Energy Organisation, SUNA: 1.
(2012) "Tata Energy Management Policy."

(2012) "Use of the Territorial Sea for the Development of Renewable Energy Facilities or Other Related
Structures, Equipment or Facilities (Part 5)" Oregon Territorial Sea Plan: 19.
(2013) Renewable Energy World Magazine-January & February, PennWell. 16: 60.
(2013) Renewable Energy World Magazine-September & October, PennWell. 16: 101.
(2013) Global Trends in Renewable Energy Investment_2013, UNEP, Bloomberg New Energy Finance:
65.
(2013) IEA: World Energy Outlook_2013 (WEO2013_Ch06_Renewables), International Energy Agency:
37.
(2013) IPMA Organisational Competence Baseline, International Project management Association: 68.
(2013) IRAN Profile (Renewables Interactive Map) / http://www.map.ren21.net/Iran: Renewables_Profile:
4.
(2013) MENA Renewable Status Report_2013: 21.
(2013) Method, Reliability & Validity Statistics & Research, Belbin.
(2013) Renewables 2013_Global Status Report: 178.
(2013) Renewables: Global Status report.
(2014) Annual Performance Plan_2014-15. D. o. E. R. o. S. Africa: 122.
(2014) Assignments & Duties of Iran Renewable Energy Organisation, SUNA (Iran Renewable Energy
Organisation): 3.
(2014) BP Statistical Review of World Energy (full report), BP: 48.
(2014) DoE & EIA: Annual Energy Outlook 2014 with Projections to 2040. U. D. o. Energy. Washington,
DC, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA): 269.
(2014) DoE: Strategic Plan 2014-2018. U. D. o. Energy: 32.
(2014) EIA: Annual Energy Outlook: 2014 with projections to 2040, International Energy Agency: 269.
(2014) EIA: Annual Energy Outlook: 2014 with projections to 2040 (Early Release), International Energy
Agency: 18.
(2014) EIA: Annual Energy Outlook: 2014 with projections to 2040 (insight_gea2013_lowres),
International Energy Agency: 108.
(2014) EIA: International Energy Outlook: 2014, International Energy Agency: 62.
(2014) Energy Consumption Standard Indices in Iran: Constructions, Iranian National Standards
Organisation: 1.
(2014) Energy Consumption Standard Indices in Iran: Household Appliances-1, Iranian National Standards
Organisation: 8.
(2014) Energy Consumption Standard Indices in Iran: Household Appliances-2, Iranian National Standards
Organisation: 1.

(2014) Energy Consumption Standard Indices in Iran: Industry-1, Iranian National Standards Organisation:
7.
(2014) Energy Consumption Standard Indices in Iran: Industry-2, Iranian National Standards Organisation:
6.
(2014) Energy Consumption Standard Indices in Iran: Transports-1, Iranian National Standards
Organisation: 3.
(2014) Energy Consumption Standard Indices in Iran: Transports-2, Iranian National Standards
Organisation: 3.
(2014) Energy Flow in Iran: 1385~2006. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 1.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 00 - Total. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 3.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 01 - General. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 5.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 02 - Crude Oil. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 20.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 03 - Natural Gas. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 5.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 04 - Electricity. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 7.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 05 - Coal. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 5.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 06 - Renewables. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 12.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 07 - Nuclear. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 3.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 08 - Environment. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 6.
(2014) Energy Glossary: Chapter 09 - International Organisations. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy
Ministry: 3.
(2014) Global Status Report_Renewables_2014 (Full Report). Paris.
(2014) Global Status Report_Renewables_2014 (Summary). Paris.
(2014) Global Trends in Renewable Energy Investment_2014 (Key findings). 16
(2014) History & objectives of Iran Renewable Energy Organisation, SUNA (Iran Renewable Energy
Organisation): 1.
(2014) IEA: Energy Technology Perspectives: Harnessing Electricity’s Potential. 14
(2014) IEA: Global Wind Energy Outlook_2014, International Energy Agency: 60.
(2014) IEA: Medium Term Renewable Energy Market Report: Market Analysis and Forecasts to 2020. 20

(2014) IEA: Renewable Energy Medium-Term Market Reports_2014, IEA (International Energy Agency):
20.
(2014) IEA: World Energy Investment Outlook_2014, International Energy Agency: 190.
(2014) Investigating a Higher Renewables Portfolio Standard in California. San Francisco, Energy and
Environmental Economics, Inc.: 317.
(2014) Iran Energy Balance Tables from 1967 to 2012 (1346 to 1391). P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy
Ministry: 9.
(2014) Iran Energy Balance Tables from 1967 to 2012 (1346 to 1391) (mboe). P. a. E. P. Department, Iran
Energy Ministry: 6.
(2014) Iran Energy Balance Tables from 1967 to 2012 (1346 to 1391) (mtoe). P. a. E. P. Department, Iran
Energy Ministry: 6.
(2014) Legal and Executive Items for Establishment of Non-Governmental Renewable Energy Power
Plants in Iran, SUNA (Iran Renewable Energy Organisation): 26.
(2014) Natural Gas Processing, Wikipedia: 7.
(2014) Project Perspectives-IPMA Annual Publication, International Project Management Association. 36.
(2014) RE in Iran: Report 14-07-1393. P. a. E. P. Department, Iran Energy Ministry: 25.
(2014) Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index. RECAI: 40.
(2014) Renewables Portfolio Standard Programme in California. 4
(2014) Sample contract for purchase of Renewable Electricity, SUNA (Iran Renewable Energy
Organisation): 67.
(2014) US, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority - Fiscal Year 2014-15 Budget:
19.
(2014) US, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority - Fiscal Year 2014-15 Budget:
Revised in Sept 2014: 19.
(2014) Worksheets of introducing, sample of Licenses and Contracts, SUNA (Iran Renewable Energy
Organisation): 10.
(2015) "Energy in Iran _ Wikipedia."

8-2: Categorized Reference List
Total Items = 490
1. Article (Electronic) ……………………………. 118 items ………………….……..……… 24.08%
2. Article (Journal) ……………………………. 90 items ………………….……..……… 18.37%
3. Document (Governmental) ………..…………… 70 items ……………………..………… 14.29%
4. Report …………………………….……… 59 items ……………………..………… 12.04%
5. Thesis or Dissertation ……….…….……. 41 items …………………….…………… 8.37%
6. Book (Electronic) ……………….……………. 37 items …………………….…………… 7.55%
7. Book ………………………...……………. 19 items ………………………………… 3.88%
8. Conference Paper …………...……..……. 10 items ………………...…….………… 2.04%
9. Book Section (Electronic) ……………………. 8 items …………………...….………… 1.63%
10. Standard ………………………..………… 7 items ………………...……………… 1.43%
11. Classical Work …………………………… 6 items …………………...…………… 1.22%
12. Web Page ………………………………… 6 items …………………...…………… 1.22%
13. Conference Proceedings …….………….… 5 items ………………...……………… 1.02%
14. Article (Magazine) ………………………….… 4 items ………………….……………… 0.82%
15. Manuscript …………………...…………… 4 items ………………………………… 0.82%
16. Figure ………………………...…………… 2 items ………………………………… 0.41%
17. Chart or Table ………………..…………… 1 item …………..……..……………… 0.02%
18. Map ………………………...……...……… 1 item …………………..……………… 0.02%
19. Encyclopedia ………………..…..………… 1 item …………………..……………… 0.02%
20. Communication (Personal) …..…..…………… 1 item …………………..……………… 0.02%

8-2-1: References according to the Type
Ref. Type
490 SUM
PERCENTAGE
1 118 Article (Electronic) 24.08%
2 90 Article (Journal) 18.37%
3 70 Document (Governmental) 14.29%
4 59 Report 12.04%
5 41 Thesis or Dissertation 8.37%
6 37 Book (Electronic) 7.55%
7 19 Book 3.88%
8 10 Conference Paper 2.04%
9 8 Book Section (Electronic) 1.63%
10 7 Standard 1.43%
11 6 Classical Work 1.22%
12 6 Web Page 1.22%
13 5 Conference Proceedings 1.02%
14 4 Article (Magazine) 0.82%
15 4 Manuscript 0.82%
16 2 Figure 0.41%
17 1 Chart or Table 0.20%
18 1 Map 0.20%
19 1 Encyclopedia 0.20%
20 1 Communication (Personal) 0.20%

Figure 8-0001: Number of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Pie-Chart)

Figure 8-0002: Number of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Column-Chart)

Figure 8-0003: Percentage of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Pie-Chart)

Figure 8-0004: Percentage of Each Reference Type in a descending order (Column-Chart)

8-2-2: References in Chronological Order
No. 490 Year 100.00% PERCENTAGE
1 2 unknown 0.41%
2 1 1976 0.20%
3 2 1979 0.41%
4 1 1981 0.20%
5 1 1982 0.20%
6 1 1987 0.20%
7 1 1989 0.20%
8 3 1990 0.61%
9 2 1993 0.41%
10 1 1994 0.20%
11 1 1995 0.20%
12 2 1997 0.41%
13 3 1998 0.61%
14 3 1999 0.61%
15 4 2000 0.82%
16 2 2001 0.41%
17 8 2002 1.63%
18 4 2003 0.82%
19 10 2004 2.04%
20 21 2005 4.29%
21 20 2006 4.08%
22 20 2007 4.08%
23 28 2008 5.71%
24 52 2009 10.61%
25 53 2010 10.82%
26 104 2011 21.22%
27 58 2012 11.84%
28 16 2013 3.27%
29 65 2014 13.27%
30 1 2015 0.20%

Figure 8-0005: Number of References in Chronological Order (Column-Chart)

Figure 8-0006: Number of References in Chronological Order (Pie-Chart)

APPENDIX 1: The Literature Review Coding Matrix and Table

APPENDIX 2: Bi-Lingual Request Letter Sent to the Respondents
((‫يکتا‬ ‫ايزد‬ ‫بنام‬))
‫گرامي‬ ‫همکاران‬ ‫و‬ ‫دوستان‬
‫های‬ ‫پروژه‬ ‫اجرای‬ ‫و‬ ‫تصويب‬ ‫برای‬ ‫گيری‬ ‫تصميم‬ ‫در‬ ‫مؤثر‬ ‫عوامل‬ ‫تاثيرگذاری‬ ‫ميزان‬ ‫خصوص‬ ‫در‬ ‫تحقيقي‬ ‫"پرسشنامه‬ :‫موضوع‬
"‫ايران‬ ‫گاز‬ ‫پااليشي‬ ‫شرکتهای‬ ‫های‬ ‫پروژه‬ ‫سبد‬ ‫در‬ ‫تجديدپذير‬ ‫انرژيهای‬
‫ادب؛‬ ‫و‬ ‫سالم‬ ‫عرض‬ ‫با‬
‫قالبهای‬ ‫در‬ ‫فايل‬ ‫دو‬ ،‫پيوست‬ ‫به‬Excel‫و‬Word‫برای‬ ‫پرسشنامه‬ ‫يک‬ ‫به‬ ‫مربوط‬ ‫که‬ ‫است‬ ‫آمده‬
‫دوم‬ ‫فايل‬ ‫در‬ ‫اجمالي‬ ‫توضيحات‬ .‫باشد‬ ‫مي‬ ‫اينجانب‬ ‫دانشگاهي‬ ‫تحقيق‬(Word)
‫شده‬ ‫حضور‬ ‫تقديم‬ ،
.‫است‬
‫ام‬ ‫داشته‬ ‫را‬ ‫ايميلشان‬ ‫آدرس‬ ‫که‬ ‫همکاراني‬ ‫کليه‬ ‫برای‬ ،‫درخواست‬ ‫اين‬‫انرژی‬ ‫مديريت‬ ‫تيم‬ ‫محترم‬ ‫(اعضای‬
‫پروژه‬ ‫با‬ ‫مرتبط‬‫استقرار‬‫ساما‬‫انرژی‬ ‫های‬ ‫داده‬ ‫مديريت‬ ‫نه‬‫در‬)‫گاز‬ ‫پااليشي‬ ‫شرکتهای‬‫؛‬
،‫نيز‬ ‫شما‬ ‫خواهشمندم‬ .‫ام‬ ‫نموده‬ ‫ارسال‬
‫دارند‬ ‫فعاليت‬ ‫انرژی‬ ‫مديريت‬ ‫تيمهای‬ ‫در‬ ‫که‬ ‫دوستاني‬ ‫و‬ ‫همکاران‬ ‫کليه‬ ‫برای‬‫مباحث‬ ‫به‬ ‫يا‬
‫مندند‬ ‫عالقه‬ ،‫انرژی‬ ‫مديريت‬‫عال‬ ‫فرآيند؛‬ ‫مهندسي‬ ‫يا‬ ‫و‬ ‫برداری‬ ‫بهره‬ ‫واحدهای‬ ‫در‬ ‫شاغل‬ ‫محترم‬ ‫(همکاران‬‫واحدهای‬ ‫بر‬ ‫وه‬
،)‫انرژی‬ ‫/مطالعات‬ ‫مديريت‬
.‫فرماييد‬ ‫فروارد‬
‫که‬ ‫دهندگان‬ ‫پاسخ‬ ‫از‬ ‫نفر‬ ‫سه‬ ‫به‬ ،‫رو‬ ‫پيش‬ ‫زحمات‬ ‫از‬ ‫بخشي‬ ‫بخاطر‬ ‫قدرداني‬ ‫پاس‬ ‫به‬ ‫ضمنا‬
.‫گرديد‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫تقديم‬ ‫ناقابلي‬ ‫هدايای‬ ‫قرعه‬ ‫قيد‬ ‫به‬ ،‫شد‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫اعالم‬ ‫دوستان‬ ‫کليه‬ ‫به‬ ‫آنها‬ ‫اسامي‬
‫راز‬ ‫اصل‬ ‫رعايت‬ ‫جهت‬ ‫خواهشمندم‬ ‫خاتمه‬ ‫در‬‫مراحل‬ ‫کليه‬ ‫در‬ ‫ايميلي‬ ‫مکاتبات‬ ،‫داری‬‫را‬‫از‬
‫طريق‬Bcc‫فرماييد‬ ‫محبت‬‫امتنان‬ ‫موجب‬ ،‫اينجانب‬ ‫به‬ ‫بازگرداندن‬ ‫و‬ ‫پاسخگويي‬ ‫در‬ ‫تسريع‬ .
‫مضاعف‬،‫کشي‬ ‫قرعه‬ ‫در‬ ‫و‬ ‫بود‬ ‫خواهد‬20%‫نمود‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫اضافه‬ ‫شانس‬ ‫به‬.‫زمان‬ ‫حسب‬ ‫بر‬ ‫(محاسبه‬
‫ايميل‬ ‫آدرس‬ ‫به‬ ‫آن‬ ‫ارسال‬ ‫تا‬ ‫دهنده؛‬ ‫پاسخ‬ ‫توسط‬ ‫ايميل‬ ‫دريافت‬).‫باشد‬ ‫مي‬ ‫اينجانب‬
‫سپاس‬ ‫با‬
‫سطوتي‬ ‫کوروش‬
‫دوشنبه‬15/02/1393

((In the name of the ALMIGHTY GOD))
Dear friends and colleagues,
Subject: “Research Questionnaire for investigating the impact/influencing amount/degree of
decision-making factors that lead to prioritisation and approval of renewable energy
projects in project portfolio of the natural gas refineries in IRAN”
Good day;
Two Excel and Word format files have been attached which are related to
my academic research. The brief description has been offered in the
attached Word format file.
This request has been sent to all colleagues whose e-mail addresses I had
(The respected team members in implementing the energy management system project for gas processing
companies)
. Would you mind sending/forwarding to all whom you know as a
member of energy management teams or interested in this field? (i.e. The
colleagues working in production/operation, process engineering and/or energy studying/management
departments)
Meanwhile, as a little appreciation due to your invaluable efforts, three
unmentionable gifts will be awarded to three respondents via a
randomizing selection process.
At the end, please perform all communicating steps in Bcc mode because
of confidentiality concerns. Speeding up in responding/answering and re-
sending to me will be so much appreciated and also raise the winning
chance by 20%. (Calculation is with respect to the time duration of being received the e-mails between
sender and responder; finally to me.)
Warmest Regards,
Koorosh SATVATI
Monday, 5th.
May 2014.

APPENDIX 3: Bi-Lingual Invitation Package for Completing the Questionnaire
Welcome to the bi-lingual survey on assessing and evaluating
"Decision Making Factors that Lead to Prioritisation and Approval of
Renewable (Green) Energy Projects in Project Portfolio Management"
'Case Study: Natural gas refineries in IRAN'
‫دو‬ ‫تحقيق‬ ‫به‬-‫آمديد‬ ‫خوش‬ ‫زير‬ ‫موضوع‬ ‫خصوص‬ ‫در‬ ‫امتيازدهي‬ ‫و‬ ‫ارزيابي‬ ‫جهت‬ ‫زبانه‬
"‫پذير‬ ‫تجديد‬ ‫انرژيهاي‬ ‫از‬ ‫استفاده‬ ‫هاي‬ ‫پروژه‬ ‫تصويب‬ ‫و‬ ‫گرفتن‬ ‫اولويت‬ ‫به‬ ‫منجر‬ ‫که‬ ‫ساز‬ ‫تصميم‬ ‫عوامل‬)‫(سبز‬‫سبد‬ ‫در‬‫پروژه‬
‫شوند‬ ‫مي‬ ‫ها‬"
'‫موردي‬ ‫مطالعه‬-‫ايران‬ ‫در‬ ‫طبيعي‬ ‫گاز‬ ‫پااليش‬ ‫شرکتهاي‬'
 The main aim or goal of this survey is:
Generating an Applicable Methodological Algorithm or Scenario Which Can Be Used by
The Energy Manager or Energy Management Department of a Company
To Convince, Persuade or Lead the Decision-Makers to Do More Efficiently
in the Process of Approval and Prioritisation of Renewable Energy Projects in
Project Portfolio Management of the Company
:‫از‬ ‫است‬ ‫عبارت‬ ‫تحقيق‬ ‫اين‬ ‫مقصود‬ ‫يا‬ ‫اصلي‬ ‫هدف‬
‫الگوريت‬ ‫يک‬ ‫ارائه‬‫گرفته‬ ‫بکار‬ ‫شرکت‬ ‫يک‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫مديريت‬ ‫دپارتمان‬ ‫يا‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫مدير‬ ‫توسط‬ ‫بتواند‬ ‫که‬ ‫کاربردي‬ ‫روشي‬ ‫سناريوي‬ ‫يا‬ ‫م‬
‫پروژه‬ ‫روي‬ ‫بر‬ ‫گذاري‬ ‫اولويت‬ ‫و‬ ‫تصويب‬ ‫فرآيند‬ ‫در‬ ‫که‬ ‫اي‬ ‫بگونه‬ ‫کند‬ ‫هدايت‬ ‫يا‬ ‫ترغيب‬ ،‫متقاعد‬ ‫را‬ ‫گيران‬ ‫تصميم‬ ‫بطوريکه‬ ‫شود‬
‫هاي‬ ‫پروژه‬ ‫سبد‬ ‫در‬ ‫تجديدپذير‬ ‫انرژيهاي‬ ‫از‬ ‫استفاده‬ ‫هاي‬.‫نمايند‬ ‫عمل‬ ‫بهتري‬ ‫کارآيي‬ ‫يا‬ ‫وري‬ ‫بهره‬ ‫با‬ ،‫شرکت‬ ‫يک‬
Problem: There is no obvious motive force1 to define, approve and implement the energy
projects for using the renewable (green) energy resources.
(1Motive force = logic, algorithm, desire, emergency, motivation, legislation and/or
even legal obligation)
‫راستاي‬ ‫در‬ ‫که‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫حوزه‬ ‫هاي‬ ‫پروژه‬ ‫شدن‬ ‫اجرايي‬ ‫و‬ ‫تصويب‬ ،‫تعريف‬ ‫براي‬ ‫مشخصي‬ 1‫محرکه‬ ‫نيروي‬ ‫هيچ‬ :‫مشکل‬
.‫ندارد‬ ‫وجود‬ ،‫باشد‬ )‫(سبز‬ ‫تجديدپذير‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫از‬ ‫استفاده‬1
،‫تمايل‬ ،‫الگوريتم‬ ،‫منطق‬ = ‫محرکه‬ ‫(نيروي‬
)‫قانوني‬ ‫هاي‬ ‫بازدارنده‬ ‫حتي‬ ‫و/يا‬ ‫قانون‬ ،‫انگيزه‬ ،‫اضطرار‬

 How will resolving this problem help organisations?
In fact, there seems to be a 'MUST' for all people and organisations, in turn. This 'MUST' has been
resulted from both the social responsibility for keeping or maintaining fossil energy resources as an
invaluable treasure for next generations in parallel to environmental responsibility for less carbon
producing or clean development mechanism (CDM) policy, and strategic management of switching from fossils into
renewable before reaching to nearly end or very highly expense of fossil resources as told before.
Using the outcome of this research in policy-making process for an energy management
department or an organisation can make sustainable and life-time benefits for all similar companies
–great energy producers- and partially for all energy consumers.
The sooner, the easier for competence and sustainable existence
‫کند؟‬ ‫مي‬ ‫کمک‬ ‫سازمانها‬ ‫به‬ ،‫مشکل‬ ‫اين‬ ‫حل‬ ‫چگونه‬
‫رس‬ ‫مي‬ ‫بنظر‬ ،‫حقيقت‬ ‫در‬‫باشد‬ ‫داشته‬ ‫وجود‬ ‫خود‬ ‫نوبه‬ ‫به‬ ‫سازمانها‬ ‫همچنين؛‬ ‫و‬ ‫مردم‬ ‫همه‬ ‫براي‬ "‫"بايد‬ ‫يک‬ ‫د‬.‫از‬ ‫هم‬ ،"‫"بايد‬ ‫اين‬
‫شده‬ ‫منتج‬ ‫آينده‬ ‫نسلهاي‬ ‫براي‬ ‫ارزشمند‬ ‫گنجينه‬ ‫يک‬ ‫بعنوان‬ ‫فسيلي‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫نگهداري‬ ‫يا‬ ‫حفظ‬ ‫بمنظور‬ ‫اجتماعي‬ ‫مسئوليتهاي‬ ‫منظر‬
‫را‬ ‫در‬ ‫محيطي‬ ‫زيست‬ ‫مسئوليتهاي‬ ،‫آن‬ ‫بموازات‬ ‫هم‬ ‫و‬ ‫است‬‫کربن‬ ‫توليد‬ ‫کاهش‬ ‫ستاي‬)‫ام‬ ‫دي‬ ‫(سي‬ ‫پاک‬ ‫توسعه‬ ‫مکانيزم‬ ‫سياست‬ ‫يا‬‫مديريت‬ ‫و‬ ،
‫فسيلي‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫باالي‬ ‫بسيار‬ ‫هاي‬ ‫هزينه‬ ‫يا‬ ‫انتها‬ ‫به‬ ‫تقريبي‬ ‫شدن‬ ‫نزديک‬ ‫از‬ ‫قبل‬ ‫تجديدپذير‬ ‫به‬ ‫فسيلي‬ ‫از‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫تغيير‬ ‫براي‬ ‫استراتژيک‬
.‫شد‬ ‫گفته‬ ‫قبل‬ ‫در‬ ‫که‬ ‫همانطور‬
‫س‬ ‫فرآيند‬ ‫در‬ ‫تحقيق‬ ‫اين‬ ‫دستآوردهاي‬ ‫بکارگيري‬‫و‬ ‫پايدار‬ ‫منافع‬ ،‫سازمان‬ ‫يک‬ ‫يا‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫مديريت‬ ‫دپارتمان‬ ‫يک‬ ‫براي‬ ‫گذاري‬ ‫ياست‬
‫مشابه‬ ‫شرکتهاي‬ ‫کليه‬ ‫براي‬ ‫العمر‬ ‫مادام‬‫انرژي‬ ‫بزرگ‬ ‫کنندگان‬ ‫توليد‬ ‫ـ‬–‫آورد‬ ‫ارمغان‬ ‫به‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫کنندگان‬ ‫مصرف‬ ‫کليه‬ ‫براي‬ ،‫حدودي‬ ‫تا‬ ‫و‬.
.‫بود‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫آسانتر‬ ‫پايدار‬ ‫بقاء‬ ‫و‬ ‫رقابت‬ ،‫شود‬ ‫اقدام‬ ‫زودتر‬ ‫هرچه‬
The survey will present you with a number of essential factors which have been collected as a
result of the related literature review done so far. You are asked to kindly rate and/or rank them
according to their impact based on your own experience and opinion. The survey starts off with some
general demographic questions, as usual.
‫از‬ ‫تعدادي‬ ،‫تحقيق‬ ‫اين‬‫اصلي‬ ‫عوامل‬‫داد‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫نشان‬ ‫شما‬ ‫به‬ ‫را‬ ‫اند‬ ‫شده‬ ‫گردآوري‬ ‫تاکنون‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫مطالعه‬ ‫دنبال‬ ‫به‬ ‫که‬.‫جنابعالي‬ ‫از‬
‫طبق‬ ‫تحقيق‬ ‫اين‬ .‫دهيد‬ ‫نمره‬ ‫يا‬ ‫امتياز‬ ‫را‬ ‫آنها‬ ‫از‬ ‫يک‬ ‫هر‬ ‫تاثير‬ ‫ميزان‬ ،‫نظرتان‬ ‫و‬ ‫تجارب‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تکيه‬ ‫با‬ ‫و‬ ‫نموده‬ ‫لطف‬ ‫که‬ ‫گردد‬ ‫مي‬ ‫درخواست‬
‫تعدادي‬ ‫با‬ ‫معمول‬.‫شود‬ ‫مي‬ ‫آغاز‬ ‫فردي‬ ‫مشخصات‬ ‫حوزه‬ ‫در‬ ‫عمومي‬ ‫سؤال‬
 Duration: Completion of this questionnaire will take about 60 minutes.
:‫پاسخگويي‬ ‫براي‬ ‫الزم‬ ‫زمان‬ ‫مدت‬‫پرسشنامه‬ ‫اين‬ ‫تکميل‬‫حدود‬60‫دقيقه‬‫برد‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫زمان‬.

 Contact Information:
For any questions, please contact me (Koorosh R. SATVATI) via:
Email: k.satvati.energy@gmail.com
Mobile Phone: (+98) 915 511 8301
:‫تماس‬ ‫اطالعات‬
‫اينجانب‬ ‫با‬ ‫لطفا‬ ،‫پرسشي‬ ‫هرگونه‬ ‫وجود‬ ‫درصورت‬)‫سطوتي‬ ‫(کورش‬:‫فرماييد‬ ‫حاصل‬ ‫تماس‬ ‫زير‬ ‫طرق‬ ‫از‬ ‫يکي‬ ‫به‬
‫الکترونيکي‬ ‫:پست‬ k.satvati.energy@gmail.com
:‫موبايل‬ ‫تلفن‬0915 511 8301

.in the highlighted sectionsPlease replace your personal information
‫در‬ ‫لطفا‬‫زير‬ ‫شده‬ ‫مشخص‬ ‫بخشهای‬:‫فرماييد‬ ‫جايگزين‬ ‫را‬ ‫خود‬ ‫اطالعات‬ ،
Please fill the following demographic questions:
1. Surname: SATVATI
2. Name: Koorosh
3. Company Name: S.G.P.C. Shahid Hashemi-Nezhad Gas Processing Company (Khangiran)
4. Job Title: Energy Manager
5. Work Experience (? Years): 20
6. E-mail Address: k.satvati.energy@gmail.com
7. Contact Number (optional): +98 915 511 8301
:‫فرماييد‬ ‫پاسخ‬ ‫زير‬ ‫آماری‬ ‫سؤاالت‬ ‫به‬ ‫لطفا‬
1-:‫خانوادگي‬ ‫نام‬‫سطوتي‬
2-:‫نام‬‫کوروش‬
3-:‫شرکت‬ ‫نام‬)‫(خانگيران‬ ‫نژاد‬ ‫هاشمي‬ ‫شهيد‬ ‫گاز‬ ‫پااليش‬ ‫شرکت‬
4-:‫سازماني‬ ‫پست‬ ‫عنوان‬‫انرژی‬ ‫مدير‬
5-‫کار‬ ‫سابقه‬)‫(؟سال‬:20
6-:‫ايميل‬ ‫آدرس‬k.satvati.energy@gmail.com
7-‫تماس‬ ‫شماره‬)‫(دلخواه‬:98 915 511 8301+
Would you please refer to the attached excel file for rating (questionnaire).
.‫فرماييد‬ ‫مراجعه‬ ‫(پرسشنامه)؛‬ ‫پيوست‬ ‫اکسل‬ ‫فايل‬ ‫به‬ ‫دهي‬ ‫امتياز‬ ‫برای‬ ‫است‬ ‫خواهشمند‬
*****************************
Respondents:
Energy Managers and their Colleagues
In Processing Gas Companies of IRAN

:‫مخاطبين‬
‫همکارانشان‬ ‫و‬ ‫انرژی‬ ‫مديران‬
‫ايران‬ ‫گاز‬ ‫پااليشي‬ ‫شرکتهای‬ ‫کليه‬ ‫در‬
Three gifts will be awarded to three randomized respondents.
The names will be announced.
.‫شد‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫اعطاء‬ ‫کشي‬ ‫قرعه‬ ‫با‬ ‫نفر‬ ‫سه‬ ‫به‬ ‫يادبود‬ ‫رسم‬ ‫به‬ ‫هديه‬ ‫سه‬
‫اسام‬.‫رسيد‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫استحضار‬ ‫به‬ ،‫آنها‬ ‫ي‬
EEnndd ooff QQuueessttiioonnnnaaiirree ## 11
If necessary, the second (final) questionnaire will be sent to you, again.
‫يک‬ ‫شماره‬ ‫پرسشنامه‬ ‫پايان‬‫يک‬ ‫شماره‬ ‫پرسشنامه‬ ‫پايان‬
‫تکميلي‬ ‫پرسشنامه‬ ‫نياز‬ ‫صورت‬ ‫در‬)‫(نهايي‬،.‫شد‬ ‫خواهد‬ ‫ارسال‬ ‫حضورتان‬ ‫مجددا‬

Force Yield Analysis of Decision-Making Factors
(Ranked and Categorized Analytically based on their Positive/Negative Effects) Revision 2/Force Yield Analysis
ApprovalandPrioritizationof
RenewableEnergyProjects
PositiveForces
Impact on National Issues [National Benefits out of the Projects]
Potential Renewable Energy Resource(s)
The Degree of support from the Companies' Policy and Strategy
Impact on Safety Issues
Financial and Economic Parameters (+)
Impact on Environmental Issues
Energy Efficiency
Impact on Energy Intensity
Impact from Other Energy Carriers
Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions (+)
Impact on Equipment Energy Production Facilities Lifetime
Implementation History and Background in Other Companies
Knowledge Improvement
Impact on Cultural Issues
Financial and Economic Parameters (-)
Time
Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions (-)
Implementation Needs
Complexity
Necessity to Research and Study
Necessity to Receiving the Licensor's Permission
NegativeForces
P-1 P-2
P-5
P-6 P-7 P-8 P-9
P-10 P-11
P-14 P-15 P-16
P-19
P-3 P-4
P-12 P-13
P-17 P-18
P-20
P-21
P-22 P-23
P-24 P-25
P-26
N-1
N-2 N-3 N-4
N-5 N-6 N-7
N-8 N-9
N-10 N-11 N-12 N-13 N-14 N-15 N-16 N-17
N-18 N-19
N-20
‫نيرو‬ ‫ميدان‬ ‫روش‬ ‫به‬ ‫ساز‬ ‫تصميم‬ ‫عوامل‬ ‫تحليل‬
‫مثبت/من‬ ‫تاثيرات‬ ‫اساس‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تحليلي‬ ‫بندي‬ ‫طبقه‬ ‫و‬ ‫بندي‬ ‫(رتبه‬)‫في‬‫ويرايش‬2‫نيرو‬ ‫ميدان‬ ‫/تحليل‬
‫ب‬‫م‬‫نيروهای‬
‫مل‬ ‫تا‬‫ها‬ ‫وژه‬ ‫پ‬ ‫ای‬ ‫اج‬ ‫از‬ ‫ناش‬ ‫مل‬ ‫افع‬ ‫م‬
‫ي‬ ‫پ‬ ‫ي‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ژی‬ ‫ان‬ ‫ابع‬ ‫م‬ ‫د‬ ‫وج‬ ‫ان‬ ‫پ‬
‫ک‬ ‫ش‬ ‫ی‬ ‫ات‬ ‫اس‬ ‫و‬ ‫م‬ ‫خ‬ ‫از‬ ‫ان‬ ‫پ‬ ‫درجه‬
‫اي‬ ‫روی‬ ‫ب‬ ‫تا‬
) (‫ادی‬ ‫اق‬ ‫و‬ ‫مال‬ ‫های‬ ‫پارام‬
‫م‬ ‫زي‬ ‫ات‬ ‫ا‬
‫ژی‬ ‫ان‬ ‫کارآي‬
‫ژی‬ ‫ان‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ش‬ ‫روی‬ ‫ب‬ ‫تا‬
‫ژی‬ ‫ان‬ ‫حاملهای‬ ‫ساي‬ ‫از‬ ‫ی‬ ‫ي‬ ‫پ‬ ‫تا‬
) (‫ل‬ ‫ت‬ ‫و‬ ‫ات‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ع‬ ‫ائ‬ ‫ش‬ ‫روی‬ ‫ب‬ ‫تا‬
‫ژی‬ ‫ان‬ ‫ه‬ ‫ک‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ات‬ ‫ه‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ع‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ب‬ ‫تا‬
‫ها‬ ‫ک‬ ‫ش‬ ‫ساي‬ ‫در‬ ‫اي‬ ‫اج‬ ‫سابقه‬
‫دان‬ ‫ارتقاء‬
‫ه‬ ‫ف‬ ‫روی‬ ‫ب‬ ‫تا‬
(-)‫ادی‬ ‫اق‬ ‫و‬ ‫مال‬ ‫های‬ ‫پارام‬
‫زمان‬
(-)‫ل‬ ‫ت‬ ‫و‬ ‫ات‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ع‬ ‫ائ‬ ‫ش‬ ‫روی‬ ‫ب‬ ‫تا‬
‫اي‬ ‫اج‬ ‫ازهای‬ ‫ن‬
‫گ‬ ‫پ‬
‫العه‬ ‫م‬ ‫و‬ ‫ق‬ ‫ق‬ ‫ت‬ ‫به‬ ‫از‬ ‫ن‬
‫ژی‬ ‫ل‬ ‫تک‬ ‫صاح‬ ‫ز‬ ‫م‬ ‫درياف‬ ‫ورت‬ ‫ض‬
‫من‬‫نيروهای‬P-1 P-2
P-5
P-6 P-7 P-8 P-9
P-10 P-11
P-14 P-15 P-16
P-19
P-3 P-4
P-12 P-13
P-17 P-18
P-20
P-21
P-22 P-23
P-24 P-25
P-26
N-1
N-2 N-3 N-4
N-5 N-6 N-7
N-8 N-9
N-10 N-11 N-12 N-13 N-14 N-15 N-16 N-17
N-18 N-19
N-20
Annex-1 ‫ضميمه‬-1

Paired Comparison Analysis
of Decision-Making Factors
(Ranked and Categorized Analytically based on their Importance and Positive/Negative Effects) Revision 3
‫تصميم‬ ‫عوامل‬ ‫زوجي‬ ‫مقايسه‬ ‫تحليل‬‫ساز‬
)‫آنان‬ ‫مثبت/منفي‬ ‫آثار‬ ‫و‬ ‫اهميت‬ ‫اساس‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تحليلي‬ ‫شده‬ ‫بندي‬ ‫طبقه‬ ‫و‬ ‫بندي‬ ‫(رتبه‬‫ويرايش‬3
****************************************************************
02. Potential Renewable Energy Resources / ‫پتانس‬‫ي‬‫ل‬‫انرژ‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫وجود‬‫ي‬‫تجد‬‫ي‬‫دپذ‬‫ي‬‫ر‬
 Type of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-1)
/ ‫استفاده‬ ‫قابل‬ ‫تجديدپذير‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫نوع‬
 Amount of Usable Renewable Energy Resource(s) (P-2)
/ ‫استفاده‬ ‫قابل‬ ‫تجديدپذير‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫مقدار‬
03. The Degree of Support from the Companies' Policy and Strategy / ‫درجهه‬
‫پشت‬‫ي‬‫بان‬‫ي‬‫مش‬ ‫خط‬ ‫از‬‫ي‬‫استراتژ‬ ‫و‬‫ي‬‫شرکت‬
 Support from Company's Policy (P-3)
/ ‫شرکت‬ ‫مشي‬ ‫خط‬ ‫از‬ ‫پشتيباني‬
 Support from National Policy (P-4)
/ ‫ملي‬ ‫مشي‬ ‫خط‬ ‫از‬ ‫پشتيباني‬
04. Impact on Safety Issues / ‫تا‬‫ي‬‫ر‬‫رو‬ ‫بر‬‫ي‬‫ا‬‫ي‬‫من‬‫ي‬
 Decrease of the Safety Risk Intensity (P-5)
/ ‫ايمني‬ ‫ريسکهاي‬ ‫شدت‬ ‫کاهش‬
05. Financial and Economic Parameters / ‫پارامترها‬‫ي‬‫مال‬‫ي‬‫اقتصاد‬ ‫و‬‫ي‬
 Benefit Amount (+)
(P-6)
/ ‫سودآوري‬ ‫ميزان‬
 Revenue (+)
(P-7)
/ ‫سرمايه‬ ‫بازگشت‬
 Opportunities or Potentials for Using Governmental Subsidies (+)
(P-8)
/ ‫از‬ ‫استتفاده‬ ‫پتانستيلهاي‬ ‫يتا‬ ‫فرصتتها‬
‫ي‬‫ارانه‬‫ها‬‫ي‬‫دولت‬‫ي‬
 Increase of Fossil Energy Resources Costs (+)
(P-9)
/ ‫فسيلي‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫منابع‬ ‫هاي‬ ‫هزينه‬ ‫افزايش‬
 Investment Amount (-)
(N-1)
/ ‫گذاري‬ ‫سرمايه‬ ‫ميزان‬
06. Time / ‫زمان‬
 Duration of Implementation (N-2)
/ ‫اجرا‬ ‫زمان‬ ‫مدت‬
 Time Reaching to Influence (N-3)
/ ‫اثربخشي‬ ‫به‬ ‫رسيدن‬ ‫زمان‬
 Time Reaching to Outcomes (N-4)
/ ‫دستآوردها‬ ‫به‬ ‫رسيدن‬ ‫زمان‬
07. Impact on Environmental Issues / ‫ز‬ ‫رات‬ ‫ا‬‫ي‬‫ست‬‫مح‬‫ي‬‫ط‬‫ي‬
 Replacement Potential and Usage of Renewable Energy Resources (P-10)
/ ‫از‬ ‫استتفاده‬ ‫و‬ ‫جتايگزيني‬ ‫پتانسيل‬
‫انرژ‬ ‫منابع‬‫ي‬‫تجد‬‫ي‬‫دپذ‬‫ي‬‫ر‬
 Decrease of the Environmental Wastes (P-11)
/ ‫محيطي‬ ‫زيست‬ ‫پسماندهاي‬ ‫يا‬ ‫ضايعات‬ ‫کاهش‬
08. Energy Efficiency / ‫کارآ‬‫يي‬‫انرژ‬‫ي‬
 Lower Energy Consumption (P-12)
/ ‫کمتر‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫مصرف‬
 Higher Energy Recovery (P-13)
/ ‫بيشتر‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫بازيافت‬
09. Impact on Energy Intensity / ‫تا‬‫ي‬‫ر‬‫رو‬ ‫بر‬‫ي‬‫انرژ‬ ‫شدت‬‫ي‬
 Lower Energy Intensity _ (1st.)
/ ‫تجهيزات‬ ‫درسطح‬ ‫اول‬
- ‫کمتر‬ ‫انرژي‬ ‫شدت‬
 Lower Energy Intensity _ (2nd.)
/ ‫عملياتي‬ ‫واحدهاي‬ ‫درسطح‬ ‫دوم‬
 Lower Energy Intensity _ (3rd.)
/ ‫شرکت‬ ‫درسطح‬ ‫سوم‬
10. Impact from Other Energy Carriers / ‫تا‬‫ي‬‫رپذ‬‫ي‬‫ر‬‫ي‬‫سا‬ ‫از‬‫ي‬‫ر‬‫حاملها‬‫ي‬‫انرژ‬‫ي‬
 Possibility or Potential for Replacement with Cheaper Energy Carrier (P-17)
/ ‫با‬ ‫جايگزيني‬ ‫پتانسيل‬ ‫يا‬ ‫احتمال‬
‫حاملها‬‫ي‬‫انرژ‬‫ي‬‫ارزانتر‬
Annex-2 ‫ضميمه‬-2

 Possibility or Potential for Replacement with More Available Energy Carrier (P-18)
/ ‫پتانستيل‬ ‫يتا‬ ‫احتمتال‬
‫جا‬‫ي‬‫گز‬‫ي‬‫ن‬‫ي‬‫حاملها‬ ‫با‬‫ي‬‫انرژ‬‫ي‬‫تر‬ ‫دسترس‬ ‫در‬
11. Impact on Operating and Producing Conditions / ‫تا‬‫ي‬‫ر‬‫رو‬ ‫بر‬‫ي‬‫عمل‬ ‫شهرائط‬‫يه‬‫ات‬‫ي‬‫و‬
‫تول‬‫ي‬‫د‬
 Necessity of Plant Shut-Down for Implementing of the Project(s) (-)
(N-5)
/ ‫واحتدها‬ ‫توليتد‬ ‫ختط‬ ‫توقف‬ ‫به‬ ‫نياز‬
‫برا‬‫ي‬‫اجرا‬‫ي‬‫ها‬ ‫پروژه‬
 Impact on Down-Stream Activities (-)
(N-6)
/ ‫دستي‬ ‫پايين‬ ‫فعاليتهاي‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تاثير‬
 Impact on Continuity of Producing Condition (-)
(N-7)
/ ‫توليد‬ ‫تداوم‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تاثير‬
 Impact on Increase of Production Amount (+)
(P-19)
/ ‫توليد‬ ‫ميزان‬ ‫افزايش‬ ‫روي‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تاثير‬
12. Impact on Equipment Energy Production Facilities Lifetime (P-20) / ‫عمهر‬ ‫طهول‬ ‫بهر‬ ‫ير‬ ‫تها‬
‫انرژي‬ ‫کننده‬ ‫توليد‬ ‫تجهيزات‬
13. Implementation Needs / ‫ن‬‫ي‬‫ازها‬‫ي‬‫اجرا‬‫يي‬
 Internal (National)
Opportunities (N-8)
/ ‫ملي‬
‫داخلي‬ ‫فرصتهاي‬
 External (International)
Opportunities (N-9)
/ ‫المللي‬ ‫بين‬
‫بيروني‬ ‫فرصتهاي‬
14. Complexity / ‫پ‬‫ي‬‫چ‬‫ي‬‫دگ‬‫ي‬
 Complexity in Project Implementation / ‫پ‬‫ي‬‫چ‬‫ي‬‫دگ‬‫ي‬‫اجرا‬ ‫در‬‫ي‬‫پروژه‬
 Necessity of Great Changes in Current Production Systems (N-10)
/ ‫سيستتمهاي‬ ‫در‬ ‫عمتده‬ ‫تغييترات‬ ‫ضترورت‬
‫تول‬‫ي‬‫د‬‫کنون‬‫ي‬
 Necessity of Small Changes in Current Production Systems (N-11)
/ ‫سيستتمهاي‬ ‫در‬ ‫کوچک‬ ‫تغييرات‬ ‫ضرورت‬
‫تول‬‫ي‬‫د‬‫کنون‬‫ي‬
 Complexity in Usage / ‫پ‬‫ي‬‫چ‬‫ي‬‫دگ‬‫ي‬‫استفاده‬ ‫در‬‫ي‬‫ا‬‫بردار‬ ‫بهره‬‫ي‬
 Complexity in Production or Operating Condition / ‫پ‬‫ي‬‫چ‬‫ي‬‫دگ‬‫ي‬‫تول‬ ‫شرائط‬ ‫در‬‫ي‬‫د‬‫عمل‬ ‫و‬‫ي‬‫ات‬‫ي‬
Necessity of Special Skills (N-12)
/ ‫خاص‬ ‫مهارتهاي‬ ‫ضرورت‬
Necessity of Special Trainings (N-13)
/ ‫خاص‬ ‫آموزشهاي‬ ‫ضرورت‬
Necessity of More Presence of Specialists (Human Resources) (N-14)
/ ‫منابع‬ ‫متخصص‬ ‫نفرات‬ ‫بيشتر‬ ‫حضور‬ ‫ضرورت‬
‫انسان‬‫ي‬
 Complexity in Maintenance and Repair /
Necessity of Special Skills (N-15)
/ ‫خاص‬ ‫مهارتهاي‬ ‫ضرورت‬
Necessity of Special Trainings (N-16)
/ ‫خاص‬ ‫آموزشهاي‬ ‫ضرورت‬
Necessity of More Presence of Specialists (Human Resources) (N-17)
/ ‫متخصتص‬ ‫نفترات‬ ‫بيشتتر‬ ‫حضتور‬ ‫ضترورت‬
‫انسان‬ ‫منابع‬‫ي‬
15. Necessity of Research and Study / ‫ن‬‫ي‬‫از‬‫تحق‬ ‫به‬‫ي‬‫ق‬‫مط‬ ‫و‬‫العه‬
 Domestic (Internal) Research and Study (N-18)
/ ‫داخلي‬ ‫تحقيق‬ ‫و‬ ‫مطالعه‬
 Research Project Definition and Study out of the Company (N-19)
/ ‫مطالعته‬ ‫و‬ ‫تحقيقتاتي‬ ‫هتاي‬ ‫پتروژه‬ ‫تعريتف‬
‫سازمان‬ ‫برون‬‫ي‬
16. Implementation History and Background in Other Companies (P-21) / ‫سا‬‫بقه‬
‫اجرا‬‫يي‬‫سا‬ ‫در‬‫ي‬‫ر‬‫شرکتها‬
17. Knowledge Improvement / ‫دانش‬ ‫ارتقاء‬
 Personnel(s)' Knowledge Improvement (P-22)
/ ‫پرسنل‬ ‫دانش‬ ‫ارتقاء‬
 National Knowledge Improvement (P-23)
/ ‫ملي‬ ‫دانش‬ ‫ارتقاء‬
18. Impact on Cultural Issues / ‫تا‬‫ي‬‫ر‬‫رو‬ ‫بر‬‫ي‬‫فرهن‬
 Impact on Company's Culture (P-24)
/ ‫سازماني‬ ‫فرهنگ‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تاثير‬
 Impact on Social Culture (P-25)
/ ‫اجتماعي‬ ‫فرهنگ‬ ‫بر‬ ‫تاثير‬
/ ‫مجهوز‬ ‫دريافهت‬ ‫ضهرورت‬
‫تکنولوژ‬ ‫صاحب‬‫ي‬
/ ‫پهروژه‬ ‫اجهراي‬ ‫از‬ ‫ناشهي‬ ‫ملي‬ ‫منافع‬
‫ملي‬ ‫ير‬ ‫تا‬
‫ها‬

APPENDIX 4: Bi-Lingual Questionnaire View

APPENDIX 5: Interview Questions and Interviewees’ Views and Answers
1. How can Iran increase the share of the renewable energy resources in the country’s
energy system i.e. on a wider scale as a national strategic movement?
2. What are the main barriers/aspects/factors preventing the expansion of applying the
renewable energy resources in Iranian industries?
3. How far may the perception/vision of the decision makers influence on the process of
decision making towards implementing the renewable energy projects (according to
your own experience and/or the relevant existent history)?
4. May the practical uses of the renewable energy resources be taken into consideration
by either of governmental companies or private sector more successfully (according to
your own experience and/or the relevant existent history)?
5. Are you optimistic about the development of the renewable energy resources to
replace partially or substantially (according to the situation) fossil energy in Iran
within the next five years?
Interviewee # 1
Answer to Q1:
1. To look vision-oriented at the development of renewable energies by the sections/departments
of the Ministry of Energy and upstream integration/organisations, as well as understanding its
importance in terms of economic, social, political and international aspects;
2. To promote renewable energy organisation of Iran as the senior proctor of renewable energies
area (now at the third level, respectively Ministry of Energy, after TAVANIR and then
SUNA), therefore; instead of standing in the position of making decisions, SUNA is in the
stand for doing research (a proposed solution: the integration of SUNA with the energy
efficiency organisation to establish the new organisation named as SATBA), i.e. strategic
movement requires a strategic organisation as a sovereign or supreme level;
3. To reveal real prices of fossil fuels by removing subsidies, calculated in terms of lost
opportunities, such as the inability to export, not to produce value-added products with added
values, not to pollute the environment, i.e. current generating of energy from renewable
sources to produce electricity is much cheaper than fossil fuels
Answer to Q2:
1. Looking fancy or third-grade to the renewable energies;
2. Not sustainable and appropriate allocation of financial resources for investing in renewable
projects in terms of schedule and policy consideration ([description]: in the current situation,
income from 30 IRR per 1 kilowatt hour consumption equivalent to nearly 400 billion tomans
[approximately $100 million] a year in electricity bills of customers based on the calculation

principles of 2011 tariffs law in accordance with paragraph 133 (b) of the fifth programme
yields a limited budget for investment in renewable projects up to 400~500 megawatts
electricity production in the country);
3. Technical challenges and technology management: e.g. the tasks are not followed properly in
some cases, for example while being as a joint-venture, or when we say everything should be
done according to the agreed license or based on the successful international experiences.
[Moreover,] there are some difficulties in technology acquisition methods in comparison to
successful experiences e.g. in China, India and most recently in Turkey. China, India and Iran,
all of a similar situation in 2000 regarding the development of renewable energies; started
with a Danish company; called as Vestas. [Passing 14 years,] at present, where are they and
where is Iran? There is a multi-gigawatt production capacity in China and India, as well as
remarkable upgrading level of technology to design and re-scale to increase capacity,
however, Iran stopped on the capacity of 660 kW wind turbines.;
4. Strategic challenges;
5. [Distrust] Uncertainty of the banks for providing loans;
6. [Distrust] Uncertainty of foreign investors (such as not offering the required governmental
guarantees on behalf of the Economic Council of Iran for the construction of a 2,000 MW
renewable power plant originated from Turkey)
Answer to Q3:
It is very important. As an example - the appointment of Mr. Chitchian as the Iranian Minister of
Energy and positive changes in the field of management with respect to his personal experience
in the renewable energies from 1995 -; now, with the exception of the minister himself, other
senior managers in Ministry of Energy and TAVANIR do not believe deeply in the field of
renewable energies. They consider only the responsibility of delivering power to the people and
believe that their reputation depends on the power supply amount and no power outage.
[Actually,] they desire to supply the demanded power out of the most available and accessible
technology.
Answer to Q4:
Creating the pilot plants by the government to raise awareness of the private sector and the use of
domestic and foreign investors as the private sector
Answer to Q5:
1. If the amount of 30 IRR per kilowatt hour of electricity consumed by customers not be
increased and be the only source for renewable power purchasing, the annual construction of
more than 400 to 500 megawatts of renewable power plants will not be possible, [as a matter
of fact] it is the most reliable currently available funds or budget;
2. By the construction of 5% of the electricity demand [in Iran] of nearly 5,000 MW of
renewable power plants on the horizon the sixth programme, is planning, based on the
comprehensive knowledge-based document of renewable energies by 2024, 10% of the
renewable energies portfolio will be provided.

Interviewee # 2
Answer to Q1:
1. To have the required mechanisms for the implementation of the approved and documented
strategic plan for the development of renewable energies in the country, including diversified
or various forms of renewable resources; in other words, to determine the parameters and the
short - medium and long term actions in order to reveal the themes that should be followed;
2. To codify the instructions and upstream laws to fit the development planning according to the
approved and strategic document mentioned in the previous paragraph;
3. A responsible government agency should fill the pores of technologies, eliminate project risks
to the maximum possible extent, and grow it to the uppermost maturity level. Thereafter, the
entry into the market and its commercialization should be done by the private sector.
Answer to Q2:
There is a strong competitor called "fossil fuels" because of the high subsidies that are given to
it.
Answer to Q3:
A single person does not decide on renewable energy matters. The process proceeds according to
the technical documents that have been prepared by experts, and the opinions of decision-
makers, the members of parliament's energy commission and other sectors will be taken in this
regard, as well. Therefore, we see that a person cannot influence on decision making,
individually. On the other hand, we see that when a formal command/order on behalf of the
Minister of Energy is issued and published creating the appropriate ground for the applicants to
apply in the case of construction permits and licenses, has made investors even from abroad,
come and participate. Because fossil fuels will eventually finish. Even if not finished, due to
population increase and the resulted contamination, we are obliged to move towards renewable
energies.
Answer to Q4:
It is obvious that if the private sector enters, the public sector can act better. There are limitations
on public budgets, and meanwhile, the private sector will be the end user. In some fields [of
renewables], the government should participate, but the private sector will continue to the end.
(An experience of Japan in the field of geothermal energy was checked. The government started
and promoted [the technology] to some extent and since then, it has been privatised. That means
that the research work will be completely done by the government and then, the investors safely
followed the activities. The government tolerated the costs of geothermal wells in Japan, in terms
of test wells, production rate, and so on, in addition, the cost of the [required] research. Then, the
government introduced the existing wells with appropriate potential to the private sector to
exploit. These wells were proved [to be appropriate].) In some areas, the government cannot take
a part. Because in terms of technical knowledge, the necessary credit, etc., the private sector will

be more successful. This is the mission of the public sector to cover the areas where the private
sector currently does not see any benefit in.
Answer to Q5:
According to the studies about China, Germany, the United States and other countries within the
past two, three or five years, they had not reached to the current capacity [of renewable
energies], suddenly. They have been able to reach an acceptable level since 2005 by providing
the required infrastructure, gradual targeting in different areas and according to their credit,
investments, and technology level. That took time about 10 to 11 years. They took loans from
different banks. They consulted with various companies according to their knowledge potential.
They reached such technology level as now, they are the technology producers, themselves. It is
true that we are a country that in some cases have reached maturity, but as mentioned above, the
main competitor in this field is the fossil fuel with low price and the budget is directed in that
direction further and further to pay subsidy. [!] Therefore, the movement towards renewables has
become slow. Of course, this matter has been felt by decision-makers and as a result, they have
come to the conclusion that the renewable energy must be participated in the national energy
portfolio. Iran is ready to implement a win-win process, and work will be continued.
The truth is that we are optimistic with regard to the notifications and legal infrastructure that
have been provided, within a few years, Iran will come to a sustainable growth and some part of
the country's electricity demand be supplied from renewable sources. There are various
parameters influencing on this matter. We hope that with regard to all issues that were raised, the
domestic and foreign investors put into this field. Now, what percentage of these investments can
be operational, may go beyond our expectations. But our progress over the next 2 to 5 years is
still unknown. However, SUNA or Ministry of Energy as a governmental institution is in charge
of monitoring the work, to facilitate the participation and investment.
Interviewee # 3
Answer to Q1:
1. The energy sources [fossil fuels] that are already available to consumers with subsidies go to
the direction of subsidy-removal; i.e. using renewable energies due to the current prices of
fossil fuels have been illustrated as non-economic [infeasible];
2. To prepare the infrastructure in three areas: legal and regulatory, structural and technological;
3. Synergy must take place between the responsible agencies in the government (the subject of
renewable energies is a cross-sectional work, the ministry cannot have the exclusive domain
of a role to play, instead all related parties must play their roles);
4. To prepare the national road map for each renewable source (including the necessity for use,
the potential, the relevant technology and the determined roles of the actors)
Answer to Q2:

1. In fact, contrary to what was proposed in the first question, actually constitute obstacles. For
example, to attract international funding, we do not have proper infrastructure and legal
regulations. For the use of financial opportunities and attract foreign investment, we must
create an appropriate mechanism;
2. Another item that can be mentioned; is that the renewable energies does not play a vital and
strategic role in the country. For example, either water supply or electricity for the Ministry of
Energy is critical issue and all relevant difficulties can cause political and social problems,
however it is not so for the renewable energies.
Answer to Q3:
Because at the moment, there is no national strategic document for the use of renewable energy
unanimously accepted by the experts and approved by the directors, the implementation,
development or slowing down of renewable energy projects depend on the mentality of people.
(According to personal experience or information). In other words, it is easily influenced by the
thoughts of individuals.
Answer to Q4:
Based on international experience and scientific models studied, we should establish or define
four domains in our infrastructure to succeed in renewable energy subject: 1- the role of policy-
making; 2- the role of regulating; 3- the role of facilitating; 4- the role of serving.
Depending on the issue, playing role by public and private sectors are different. Policy-making
and regulating roles are inevitably governmental, [i.e.] the government should play the role. But
about the next two called the facilitating and serving, the third one [facilitating] lies just between
the public and private sectors, and for the fourth one [serving], it is 100% better if is done by the
private sector.
Answer to Q5:
In my opinion, a small fraction of future energy needs can be met by renewables. I do not know
the phrase; "replacement", having suitable fitness for the current subject [renewables], because
the base of the country's energy supply regarding heat, electricity and fuel; is founded on fossil
resources.
Interviewee # 4
Answer to Q1:
1. To include the renewable energy sources in the energy portfolio of the country;
2. To provide incentives for pushing energy consumers to meet [some part of] their needs from
renewable energy sources;
3. To set the appropriate laws and regulations to facilitate investment and activity in the field of
renewable energies;
4. To rearrange [To revise] the foreign investment process;

5. To codify regulations and practical solutions to support the private sector;
6. [To consider] the need for cultural infrastructure, financial, technological, industrial, and
coordinating them with each other;
7. To try to facilitate the entry of foreign investors;
8. To pay attention to the risks facing the private sector in case of entry to this subject
[renewable energy field] (we are better to consider ourselves replacing the private sector in
order to understand their situation better)
Answer to Q2:
1. Relying only on sources of fossil energy sources;
2. High price of renewable energies (needs large investment, but the return on investment such
as a dropper);
3. High level of initial investment required;
4. Long waiting period for receiving domestic products (For example, even if the cash is ready
to pay, i.e. “Cash in Hand” for a 660 kW wind turbine, one should wait for some months.)
5. Existing infrastructural obstacles;
6. Low cost of energy resources from fossils versus renewable sources;
7. Existing difficult administrative bureaucracy facing domestic and foreign investors;
8. Assigning no predetermined loan (in the same package for power plants from fossil resources
is considered and included loans at the heart of it);
9. Existing major problems in financing necessary for the operation of renewable energy sources
(Finding external financier or receiving foreign currency loans from the National
Development Fund);
10. Long administrative processes (For example, the process of receiving land to construct
wind or solar power plants, may take six to twelve months or more. Just between 10 and 12
inquiries are needed);
11. Difficult bank agreement to supply the required credits (i.e., they prefer that the loan
payback period much shorter, like their current working style is one or two years.)
Answer to Q3:
It is very effective. (As per the special attention the Minister of Energy; Mr. Chitchian, highly
encouraged investors to the issue and they are widely coming.)
Answer to Q4:
According to previous experiences and reviewed records (such as green power plant of
Binalood), initial construction has been done by the government and then in accordance with
Article 44 of the National Constitution, it has been transferred to the private sector. But there
seems to be a missing link. Since, the private sector cannot afford the high amount of required
investment, they attempt to find a foreign financier or receiving loans with foreign-currencies
from the National Development Fund; which has its own problems.

Answer to Q5:
Promising examples [positive motivations]:
1. The five-year plan to provide 5,000 megawatts of electricity from renewable energy sources
as one of the goals articulated in the country's fifth five-year plan;
2. Incentives in the form of a grant to pay half the cost of installing rooftop power plants from
last year;
3. New approvals announced by the Minister of Energy; Mr. Chitchian, lead to tremendous
investors’ coming (even foreign investors still consider these new tariffs highly attractive);
4. The possibility of imminent lifting of sanctions;
5. Environmental problems and obligations of international commitments that the country will
be considered in the event of non-compliance with targets, we will be forced to pay heavy
fines;
6. Hope to continue receiving 30 IRR per each kilowatt of power consumption for the subscribed
consumers to be used for the required investment in the field of renewable energies and the
guaranteed purchase of the electricity generated from renewable energy sources;
7. LC in IRR is about to be opened (paid as deposit and withdraw six months after production)
I believe that the private sector needs to step in his way, but a series of special support from the
government should be done. I am also of the opinion that due to the current process regarding the
current international situation, moving towards renewable energies is a “Must”.
Interviewee # 5
Answer to Q1:
1. To consider an appropriate guaranteed purchase price for electricity [generated from
renewable sources] as neither too low which yields no attractions nor too high which cannot
be afforded [by the government] (contracts are concluded for twenty years, and therefore we
must act very cautiously);
2. We are obliged to move forward in extracting energy from biomass due to the environmental
issues. There is a major difference between biomass resources and other renewable sources
such as solar or wind;
3. To try to use the high potential of energy exploitable from biomass resources;
4. To try to make good use of the capabilities of existing local [domestic] industries and experts;
5. To require a particular national commitment by the government to facilitate related issues,
including budget requirements, the necessary law or legislation, to prepare the private sector
for entry to this area whereas in this case, the development of biomass is expected faster and
more extensive than other renewable sources, due to the fact that the field of biomass
technologies is very simple and in terms of complexity, cannot be compared with other
sources of renewable technologies;

6. Need for synergy and convergence between the authorities according to which all are familiar
with this area, more national approach to the field of biomass, not considering the Ministry of
Energy just responsible for power generation [from fossil sources]
Answer to Q2:
1. There is lack of coordination between the government and private sector groups. The foreign
private sector has interesting factors such as: less influencing on their performance by
inflation, more powerful money, longer time expected for return on investment, which results
that it is so much easier for us to work with them. However, they seek the guarantee for return
on investment from the Government of Iran. Whereas the Iranian investors do not seek a
guarantee for the capital return, there is no difficulties for exchanging of foreign currency [e.g.
dollar or euro] into IRR and so on;
2. The main problem facing Iranian investors is the lack of financial support from the banks. The
banks claim that they cannot give loans with pay back more than five years. It is because they
are not being justified. To return the principal and interest of the loan within 5 years,
renewable energies had to come in much more expensive and cannot compete with fossil
fuels. Removing this obstacle requires accurate planning and greater financing by the
government;
3. The government expect a rapid development of renewable energies. For example, in the field
of biomass, many technologies are still in the process of research, development, test; and
commercialization progress of technologies proceed slowly due to the small number of
owners of these technologies. Therefore, development is difficult;
4. The players in the field of biomass are very numerous and this energy source does not belong
to the own government. Biomass is including urban waste (under the control of municipal as
a sub-organisation under the Ministry of Interior), sanitation (under the control of water and
wastewater agencies under the Ministry of Energy; although they are more consistent with the
SUNA, the wastewater treatment is in a top priority for them instead of producing energy
from them, and in case of lack of funds, they reduce energy production projects), manure or
animal waste (which incidentally has great potential, however, the farmers are more willing
to use it as fertilizer. They believe if energy production is good, the government starts
investment on it so that we can see results. But the government dos not enter into it, the
private sector, both foreign and domestic, sees these problems and is not included in this
story), agricultural wastes (under the control of the Ministry of Agriculture) and industrial
waste (under the control of both the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Oil; problems in
this sector are higher than in other sectors. As industries are reluctant to invest in this area.);
5. The development of biomass is slow because of some reasons such as relatively low amount
of animal waste and industrial waste, difficulties in integration, large number of technology
suppliers, problems for connecting to the electricity national grid, etc.;
6. Expecting too high price for guaranteed purchase of electricity produced from biomass on
behalf of the biomass owners such as municipal; makes it less attractive for them, they would
actually like to provide some income through this.;
7. Lack of decision-makers’ attentions (biomass owners’) into environmental disasters and the
need to strengthen the long-term insights [to the importance of the environmental negative

impacts]. If we do not manage this subject by 2020, we must pay relevant fine. (We are
amongst the most polluting countries in the world. we were the seventh last year);
8. Lack of openness and transparency of relevant national laws and regulations (e.g. the low
interference of Department of Environment regarding this area);
9. Investments are not in accordance with the existing technologies [Mismatch between the
existing technology and the investments];
10. Imagination for the potential of extracting energy from waste to be considered as sidelines
by decision-makers in this area
Answer to Q3:
Their points of view are very important. Although all decision makers are fully aware of the
potential of energy recovery from waste, this subject is not as their main concern. They suppose
it marginal. Significant efforts have been made to alert them. Some [examples] that can be noted:
the distribution of brochures, books, television and radio programmes, seminars, representation
of a pilot project that has been carried out. (But the weight of their daily problems outweigh the
issue of renewable resources.)
Answer to Q4:
It is better if the public sector enter into the new categories [areas] because of its higher risk
tolerance. [On the other hand,] the private sector due to less bureaucracy in comparison to the
public sector, enters any area very comfortably, the relevant processes are done much easier and
delivery can be occurred very well. So both sides need each other, however the demands of both
sides should be reasonable.
Answer to Q5:
We are very very optimistic. With removal of sanctions, many of the problems that existed in the
country is resolved. The foreign companies are entering, and perhaps the term ‘competitiveness
in this area’ can be applied. There is a very bright future ahead and many of our problems will be
solved.
Interviewee # 6
Answer to Q1:
1. Insights and attitudes towards public beliefs [credo into renewable energy sources] to be
changed;
2. Energy carrier prices to be real;
3. Public and especially policy makers’ and the government’s knowledge [relevant to renewable
energy subject] to be increased
Answer to Q2:
1. Low cost of fossil fuels;

2. Lack of adequate profitability of projects using renewable sources. In other words, the
custodians of the industry do not see any benefit in it. (such as the failure of Aryasolar
company in Khorasan)
Answer to Q3:
Yes, yes, it is 100% effective. (Personal experience: Since the beginning of the revolution until
2013, 300 kW solar power plant was installed in Iran. In July 2013, at paragraph 69 of the
Budget Law, it was approved that an amount of 30 IRR per kilowatt electricity consumed to be
collected from customers and that income to be spent on the development of clean energy and
rural power grid development. Within just the past two years, more than 7 megawatts of solar
power plants have been installed. It is the impact of the decision makers’ vision [perception].)
Answer to Q4:
Any public or private sectors has its own advantages and disadvantages. (Personal experience:
SUNA from 2013 was in charge in conjunction with TAVANIR, so that the solar projects on the
roofs of schools and mosques be performed 100% free and others with 50% grant. According to
a survey, it was found that no effective actions for proper maintenance of the installations were
being done. It was because they obtained them free of charge and had no compassion to them.
Therefore, appropriate strategies to finance in such areas should be seen by the government.) If
the private sector would like to participate, it will certainly be more successful. Of course, this is
true if there is any profit.
Answer to Q5:
Within 5 years, no. I am not optimistic within the next 50 years, still. (I speak scientifically.
EPRI has released a report which stated that in 2050, 50% of the US energy mix will be of fossil
resources. USA that right now in comparison to our country is a few hundred steps ahead. It is a
country with high potential for renewable resources. It has the technology appropriately.)
Interviewee # 7
Answer to Q1:
1. To continue the implementation of the new legislation for guaranteed purchase of electricity;
2. To try to increase the number of contractors and activating them who are associated with
different fields of renewable resources (e.g. [as a negative case]; the construction of wind
turbines is unipolar and the only manufacturer is Sabaniroo company. [In general,] being
single causes no growth of the industry, a long time for implementing of the projects and so
on.);
3. Greater support for renewable energies by the Ministry of Energy in order to create interest as
much as possible;
4. To give loans by banks in the form of association with the Ministry of Energy, to attract the
investors and to raise the confidence in the investment (financial factor is also very
important.);

5. To optimise use of existing potential in the country (such as the appropriate sunlight and also
the wind in the North and East of the country, including Khorasan)
Answer to Q2:
-
Answer to Q3:
-
Answer to Q4:
Of course, the private sector. The government can construct the infrastructure in this case. The
private sector can enter rapidly based on the prepared infrastructure. [The private sectors
activities] include manufacturing, technology transfer, etc.
Answer to Q5:
We are optimistic, God willing. I predict a great future in this area.
Interviewee # 8
Answer to Q1:
Main drivers to move in this direction: 1. environmental incentives, 2 dispel concerns and
financial issues. If we select our tactics or strategies based on these two channels [drivers], we
can make sure we have better success. For example, to settle a new technology, we have
principles. Among those mechanisms, [the principles are like those in] the national system of
innovation, the development of technology, TIS [Transfer Information System] & NIS [Network
Information Service] systems and other issues such as these. Using these methods and logic to
develop a technology in our country or region, we should also consider the above mentioned two
channels. In the financial area, we do not mean that only the government should allocate huge
budgets to this issue. While investment policy made properly, some load may also be removed
from the government. If this does not happen in the short term, this can occur in medium and/or
long term.
Indeed, the development of renewable energy use is very difficult. Because from the perspective
of the environmental issues, there need for awareness, promotion and raise of public culture
cannot be happened easily, over one night, or with an advertising message.
From the financial perspective, it must be acted in order to stimulate competitiveness.
Promoting, investment policy-making and putting rails for the issue of the use of renewable
energy sources instead of fossils in the countries which do not have fossil energy sources; are
very difficult. [It is much more difficult in] Iran, a country with the highest volume of oil and gas

resources in the world. Therefore, it should be conducted with particular attention and taking into
account the aspects and complexity of the case.
We should go towards the policies by which the Ministry of Energy acts freely in terms of
economic issues:
1. Gradual liberalization of energy prices and the development of energy market;
2. Attractiveness of renewable energy prices (as with presenting the new CEO of SUNA, Doctor
Sadegh-Zadeh, SUNA is to move towards.);
3. To pay attention carefully to the elements and rings of the policy-making chain, in the event
of shortage or malfunctioning of each, the other chains are also ineffective. In other words, it
is like a gear system in which all gears must properly act so that the whole mechanism works
appropriately;
4. To consider the different types of renewable resources differently in which the insight should
be altered according to each type. Because there are special actors [role players], policies and
procedures for each kind [of renewable energy sources]. For example, geothermal energy
depends on the earth. Biomass depends on the amount of waste. Wind is blowing in special
regions. The sun is more general; but it depends on higher-level technology and more
development should be done on its technology. In case the fuel cell; it is a tool that
complements the topics of renewable energies.
Answer to Q2:
1. The most fundamental factor is the dependency on oil economy;
2. The sale of electricity to the consumer not based on the actual price;
3. Subsidies to fossil fuels; which pollutes our environment and also creates disadvantages to our
economy. In the world, it is said that subsidies should usually be given to something that its
use is to be promoted. For example, subsidies to milk is expected to increase per capita
consumption for the whole health promotion. But, subsidy to fossil fuels, it is like we give
subsidies to smoking! High energy consumption [intensity], low energy savings, low
efficiency in the field of energy use, high losses in transmission lines and all of the relevant
subjects [problems] are all because of this issue. This causes one of the negative effects; the
Ministry of Energy does not have budget enough to invest on alternative energy sources. To
quote from an interview with Mr. Ali-Abadi working in Mapna company, the annual
production cost of electricity in the country is about 38.9 million dollars, the Ministry of
Energy gains from the power sale is only about 1.3 million dollars [$1 US # 38,500 IRR]!!!;
4. Special working environment in which there is no contributing space for decision-makers
even having required vision, compassion, knowledge and right approach. Very obvious
example in the current situation is the presence of Mr. Chitchian -the minister of Energy-; as
one of the lovers and those interested in the development of renewable energies, also co-
founder of Renewable Energy Organisation of Iran (SUNA), but the ministry has been
involved in the daily and economically, it is heavily indebted. Although he has the necessary
managerial skills in this regard, to what extend the body of work at the ministry is
accompanying, how much the society is prepared culturally, and other similar things; have
overcome the serious determination to develop renewable energies.

Answer to Q3:
It is very simple that [the perception of decision-makers] is effective; but not everything. We saw
the decision-makers who did not have the appropriate vision and did not make the right and
effectiveness decisions. If we ignore errors [, of course]. Also, we saw [other] decision makers
having proper vision, compassion, knowledge and right approach. But unfortunately, the existing
workspace has not allowed them to move to the required extent.
Answer to Q4:
The government should develop the preliminary steps, but following the gradual construction of
the necessary infrastructure in the community, the private sector can enter.
Answer to Q5:
NO. {Of course, in terms of personality, people around me say, “you're an optimistic person.”
The “no” is said by the person who is optimistic, himself. If I ignore the short-term, I can say that
I am optimistic. Because we are forced to go towards renewable energies. However, within the
next five years, there needs to a series of necessary infrastructure which unfortunately does not
exist now, if we try to reach our objectives in the field of renewable energy. It seems optimistic if
we are able to create the required infrastructure within the next 5 years to some. Part of it is the
social and cultural infrastructures (international pressures on environmental pollutants, etc.), and
the other part is the economic infrastructure (removal of the concern of many debt being in mind
of the managers of the Ministry of Energy and ...)}
Interviewee # 9
Answer to Q1:
1. Views of decision makers in the field of energy are to be in the direction of the
implementation of projects for the renewable sources use. ([Of course,] considering the
insistence besides positive and particular view of the supreme leader [of Iran] to this field,
naturally the authorities’ insights to this area have turned to be very positive and helpful.);
2. Infrastructure and relevant foundations for the development concerned in the country to be in
accordance with the area;
3. Presence of qualified human resources and academic elite for the development of this industry
is essential. People should have a basic academic information (such as knowledge of basic
engineering, including mechanical, electrical and chemical); later with strategic and practical
courses to meet the renewable energies industry, can be helpful in this area. There must be
trained science-based in university. [Of course,] the academic majors in terms of energy or
even renewable energies are held in graduate level [MSc].;
4. There are multiple causes and factors that influence on this field. In other words, it can depend
on political, economic, industrial, technical issues.
Answer to Q2:

1. Availability of cheap fossil fuels and the problem of competition for the use of renewable
sources with fossil sources;
2. Large fossil fuel resources; especially those shared with neighboring countries encourage the
decision makers to harvest as much more as possible;
3. Lack of tangible attractiveness in the field of investment on renewable resources;
4. Lack of sufficient awareness of people that they can use renewable resources for cooling,
heating and energy needs. It may provide them even significant environmental benefits.
Additionally, reducing the cost of health care that is imposed for the use of fossil fuels can be
another impetus in this regard.
Answer to Q3:
Much very much. As noted in the answer to the first question. For instance, objective and
positive attitude of the High Authority of the Ministry of Energy in this area, especially in recent
months accompanied with colleagues in SUNA and the respected management efforts, the price
of guaranteed purchase for the power [generated from the renewable sources] has reached a
degree that has caused the outstanding interest so that we observe a very large number of
applicants refer to the non-governmental cooperation department of SUNA in order to receive
permits. Therefore, if the insight and vision of managers be in the direction of the development
of this area, the private sector and people welcome.
Answer to Q4:
To answer to this question, it cannot be said that only the private sector or the public sector.
Infrastructure, condition, and indeed the potential for the development of renewable energy use
must be established by the government. Thereafter, the way for private sector participation be
open. Practically, the government should provide competitive environment with fossil resources
by reforming the price of electricity, favorable economic issues such as [higher] return on
investment, [both] from the view of the private sector. Of course, the private sector will be
willing to enter this field. According to the study, even some countries have ministries of
renewable energies, such as India. Although the private sector plays an important role in these
countries, the government in parallel moves to create the infrastructure and capacity required for
the development of this industry.
Answer to Q5:
A straight answer as "Yes" or "No" cannot be given. It depends on the economic and
internationally political situation of the country. [It depends on the] extent we can facilitate the
development of capacity of the industry to develop renewable energies to replace part of the
fossil fuels. Indeed, the fifth question is a summary of the [four] questions raised earlier. Now,
the attractiveness of investment in renewable sources is low. Related industry is unknown, while
fossil fuel power plants, features and bindings are more routine and more available. However,
considering all the current circumstances, taking very important steps by the Ministry of Energy
in the purchase of electricity produced from renewable sources, welcoming very well by the
private sector investors from the industry, actually within the next five years if the country's

international status regarding the sanctions to be adjusted, we will see a great development in the
country, therefore these resources will be added to the country's energy production portfolio.
Interviewee # 10
Answer to Q1:
1. To use the investments from the private sector as the best way;
2. Government support by guaranteed purchase [of electricity produced from renewable sources]
and incentives (now the guaranteed purchase in terms of price is very good);
3. Loans with low or appropriate interest;
4. Long-term contracts for the purchase of electricity;
5. Use of external [foreign] sources for investment following the lifting of sanctions
Answer to Q2:
1. Technology is nearly faced with some difficulties (There exist almost the “know how?” to
some extent, i.e. technology transfer has been done to some degree. But there does not exist
the “know why?” [process]. That means the design [capability] for renewable energy industry
is a bit fragile in Iran and the transfer of technology still has some challenges);
2. Lack of definition appropriate loans in order to encourage the participation of private sector
Answer to Q3:
-
Answer to Q4:
In the public sector, traditionally within the last few years, a budget for the projects [of
renewable energy] has been approved and the development expanded proportional to the amount
of that budget. But from the perspective of the private sector, strategists are accountable to all
relevant issues such as what the land is, where and on what technology (solar, wind and other
forms of energy) the investment is better to be done, and so on.
The private sector will be more successful. The government has limited resources for projects.
The private sector because of its nature [business] is able to seek for the best technology at the
lowest cost. It is common in the world that the government is not a good business man. The
private sector can do business better and on the other side, pay the rights to the government [such
as tax]. Both the electricity is produced and the corresponding tax to the government and the
country is injected.
Answer to Q5:
I am quite optimistic as having a share of the total portfolio for renewable energy in the country,
and not to replace the whole. Even in the countries like Germany and the United States, they are
not planned for more than 30% [on renewable sources]. Because the fossil [energy] has its own
advantages, it is more stable. For example, if the wind does not blow, weather is cloudy, i.e. if

climate change occurs, we will face with problem for electricity generation [from renewable
sources]. The recent amendments to the guaranteed purchase of electricity, it has improved [the
situation] and I am very optimistic for the development.
Interviewee # 11
Answer to Q1:
1. To recognize comprehensively the renewable energy, in terms of characteristics, obstacles,
problems and goodness;
2. Development of renewable energies is basically just a matter of life and death for mankind
accordingly; that was told for years that if we continue to develop the use of fossil fuels, we
will see undesirable climate changes; this event has actually occurred;
3. Need for governmental support in order to raise the competitiveness of renewable energies,
such as proper investment activities;
4. Pricing of renewable energies in proper form, each part of renewable energies can have a
different price in comparison to other sectors, therefore, it will become beneficial for
investors, e.g. if the payback is between 3 and 5 years, and the purchase of produced energy is
guaranteed;
5. To implement the pilot projects by the government to open the way for the private sector
participation;
6. To develop the exploitation of renewable energies by the private sector (the widespread use of
these resources without extensive participation of the private sector would be impossible);
7. To prioritise for clarification of investment potentials following proper economic analysis,
identification of existing resources, relevant technologies, local [domestic] production
facilities or technology from abroad as import licensing for higher productivity, lower cost
and longer life, etc. distinguished by the experts and relevant authorities;
8. To choose a model of development; a programme that shows what we want to do and to what
extent we want to develop;
9. Background such as marginal market for some renewable energy sources can be a good help
for their development e.g. the use of photovoltaic for watches, calculators, door openers, etc.;
10. To improve the public awareness, knowledge and culture for greater convergence in such
a way that they do not just expect economic interests through the use of renewable sources,
but they consider the important environmental concerns (for themselves and for their next
generations as ever-lasting and better heritage);
11. To inform the decision-makers to know the use of renewable sources of energy is effective
and good (it requires [the special] documentation which they can see);
12. To develop the use of solar water heaters and photovoltaic systems as a feasible and
possible step, as well as incentives and advertising influencing the minds of the public;
13. To allocate appropriate funds for guaranteed purchase of electricity produced from
renewable sources logically (lack of required credit and funding prevents the development and
use of the renewable sources);

14. To look at the renewable energy use as a necessity by the government (as a medicine in
the field of health, a school in the field of education, subject as if the cost factor does not
matter);
15. To state the assessment reasonably and honestly done by the expert to understand the
necessity of pushing the use of renewable resources (if expensive, we will develop the cheaper
ones);
16. To try to develop the possible items [renewable sources exploitation technologies] that
over time, reduction of their prices will occur by themselves (such as the development of wind
energy technology that has significantly reduced its cost price [over time], or the price drop in
the purchasing power of the photovoltaic in Germany from about 60 euro cents per one kWh
to 35~40 euro cents, now)
Answer to Q2:
Renewable energy issues in the context of its own:
1. High initial investment (such as high solar energy cost);
2. Non-competitiveness with other energy alternatives in terms of cost;
3. Imposition of high costs to the government for the use of renewable energy sources (several
times that of fossil energy);
4. Lack of an energy development document that can guide decision-makers properly (long-term
plan that indicates the amount of resources and energy consumption, as well as the share of
each)
Answer to Q3:
Naturally, it affects very much. Now, we see the change of attitudes e.g. in the field of oil
involved individuals. For example, your own [academic] research or investigative/implementing
work done by companies such as BP, etc.
Answer to Q4:
1. Implementation of pilot and initial projects (Demonstration Plants); by the government to
open the way for public participation and continuing the support by permanent purchasing of
power or energy produced from renewable sources;
2. Developing the exploitation of renewable energies by the private sector; (initial
implementation by the government encourages the private sector and removes the disturbing
concerns related to the subject)
Answer to Q5:
Development and replacement of fossil fuels with renewable is something that cannot be done
over one night. Nevertheless, it should be gradually studied and investigated to come over to
achieve desired results. If the entire contents which have been stated [in previous answers], be
carried out properly, perhaps we are to be able to produce about 5,000 megawatts of electricity
from renewable resources by the next 5 years that of course, this step is very large itself.
Introductory actions [Preparations] for the use of the renewable energy sources for the electricity

industry have been executed. That means the government purchases the produced electricity
[from renewable sources] and investors are encouraged to contract. It is also necessary to
mention that even countries that are windy and have an appropriate investment in this area,
perhaps 15% of their electricity demand is supplied from wind energy which in fact, because of
the capacity factor, it reaches about 5% of the whole share. While fossil power plant capacity
factor is between 60 to 70 percent. For example, if we try to supply the total energy demand of a
house from a solar water heater, it will practically and economically be impossible.
Interviewee # 12
Answer to Q1:
Introductory remarks: renewable energy sources should be categorized. Some of the resources
are growing and some are in their puberty [mature] stage. Fortunately, none of them have
reached the stage of aging. For this reason, the same general formula for a variety of sources
used in the country cannot be applied. Each section has its own strategy. For example, the field
of fuel cells and hydrogen, is still at the stage of pre-commercialization or demonstration. There
are many barriers in the way of achieving its maturity and commercialization, and at this time,
research is being done on them. Nonetheless areas such as wind, photovoltaic or incinerators
have reached maturity in terms of technology and they are at the stage of developing market.
Therefore, structures and models of market development can be applied to them. (Such as the
feed-in-tariff for purchase of electricity and investment incentives)
1. To stimulate the demand side - that stimulates the supply side - will be applicable for those
renewable resources that their technology has reached maturity. Such as wind, photovoltaic
and incinerators;
2. To stimulate the supply side, leading to stimulation of the demand will be applicable for those
renewable resources that their technology is not mature. Such as fuel cells and hydrogen;
3. Competition among producers of electricity from renewable sources if there exist some
limitations in national grid capacity (in the current situation, all produced electricity can be
injected into line because there is a need. However if supply is increased, dispatching
organisation will announce that the power with higher confidence is purchased. In that case,
the use of energy storage systems, will be important.);
4. Low cost difference between electricity consumption in peak and off-peak time (explanation:
the encouragement for power consumption during low load hours in comparison to the
amount of fine for power consumption during peak hours does not make serious incentive for
compliance and consumer balance. In fact, the difference should be enough to lead the
consumers to optimal use.);
5. Not to ignore indirect costs in the economic calculations (such as the cost of producing carbon
or environmental pollution); in other words, we do not execute the life cycle analysis (LCA).
Answer to Q2:

1. Expensive renewable energy sources (even regarding wind and photovoltaic exploitations
which are accelerated in the world, countries are trying to add [these renewable energy
sources] to their energy portfolio with a gentle [increasing] slope);
2. [Large] allocated space and ease of access to the facility;
3. Intermittent or impermanent electricity production (as a function of season and time) / systems
for energy sustainability are important in this regard, enter into competition, and make the
renewable energy systems dependent on their own, such as storage systems, including a new
generation of lithium-ion batteries, the new generation of lead-acid batteries, vanadium or
vanadium-bromide batteries in the scales of network management (Time Shifting or Time
Leveling);
4. Low Price of fossil energy;
5. Need to provide successful models including various aspects such as technology to convince
decision-makers for implementation of programmes to take advantage of renewable resources
(if we divide the countries into three categories; advanced, follower and intermediate, our
country is dominantly thought that is a follower.)
Answer to Q3:
The reality is that [it is] very high. (Their decision-makings for the allocation of the necessary
funds, to pay the relevant subsidy)
Answer to Q4:
For those renewable resources that are not still technologically mature and are in the stages of
pre-commercialization and demonstration, the government must enter as a supporter to validate
environment, build community confidence and let them [-the renewable energy sources-] prove
themselves. (To supply [required] finance and budget, hardware and software, etc.). However,
for other categories [of renewable energy sources] that have reached the commercialization
stage, the private sector [can] enter with the prediction that obtains economic benefits and has
less risk on the way.
Answer to Q5:
Although there are current protective laws such as the allocation of 30 IRR per kilowatt of
electricity consumption for renewable resources development investment, formulation of
objectives for the development of renewable sources in the planning document for the next five
years, and so on, considering the current situation, it does not seem to have a significant growth
[jump] in this area within the next five years.
Interviewee # 13
Answer to Q1:
1. Considering that our country moves forward to growth and development, so definitely more
energy sources will be needed. In Iran, oil and gas economy is of great importance.
[However,] we should certainly take advantage from renewable energy sources, in other

words, diversify our country's energy portfolio. For the move, this subject [the development of
the country's energy portfolio] should be considered in the country's governance system. For
example, water resources that currently supply several thousand megawatts of energy, it
seems that in the future cannot play the role very well [because of shortage in water
resources]. Taking water from the dam to turn turbines and generators for power generation
cannot continue if the need for water storage arises. Therefore, the exploitation of renewable
sources should be considered in long-term plans and prospects for the country explicitly.
("How much percent up to this year?" must be included [in the national planning in each
area].);
2. To facilitate the development of practical application of renewable energy technologies such
as solar water heaters as a comprehensive strategy;
3. Economic and financial support by the government in order to turn the wheel of renewable
energy issues; like clusters of industry which funds to be injected inside to survive due to
continued production and survival strategies. This support will be helpful in principle to the
commercialization of technologies. For instance, the cost of planting flowers and green spaces
for municipal, the cost of treatment for the Ministry of Health, the cost of training for the
Ministry of Education, etc. are examples of the nature of public services and governance
requirements. So does every activity of government cannot be done on the basis of financial
benefits or looking businessman conservative, but futuristic concerns.;
4. To look widely at the issue of renewable energy sources through an environmental
perspective. (Ministry of Energy of course, concerns the supply of electricity and it seems that
this subject should be followed by upper authorized levels i.e. by the government and
parliament, finally. This issue should become as a multi-sectoral issue. At present, department
of environment is not the main actor, efficient in its concern or stimulant which can affect [on
the society]. Still, it is a minor player. Still, the thought that the development of renewable
energies can help to improve the quality of the environment has not been as effective.);
5. To forecast for the required financial resources to buy energies produced from renewable
sources
Answer to Q2:
There are two main obstacles:
1. Renewable energy in all its forms and relevant technological stages (some being researched,
some are on the stage of entering the market and the third ones are being commercialized) in
total compared to fossil resources may be more expensive. However, over the past years, we
have observed that gradually, the difference has been declining;
2. Improper energy economy and the need for permanent presence of the government in order to
continue injecting liquidity into the energy market. For instance, the price of fossil fuels is not
real. (Fossil energy prices in comparison with other costs, like meat and so on; do not come to
the people’s eyes. For example, if the price of gasoline is $0.78 per liter, they may all go
towards the purchase of electric motors which are affordable for them. Or if natural gas prices
are more realistic, perhaps all will act to install solar water heaters. In addition, automatically,
optimizing the energy consumption can also be more practical, although part of goes back to
the cultural issues of the society. When we are to pay ten times for our natural gas

consumption, then we pay attention to our consumption. For example, the opening and closing
of windows, insulation, etc. will be very important.)
Answer to Q3:
It is very effective.
Decision making in the area of economic concerns is very close to oil [economy] now.
Everything is compared with oil. For example, to show the status of renewable energies, the
calculating report is oil-based and stated in terms of the reduction amount of fossil fuels. It
should be asked that if we do not have oil, what will we do [for our calculations]? (Ministry of
Energy, the parliament, the country's planning agency, the government, etc.)
Answer to Q4:
Since productivity is generally low in the public system, it is better if the private sector would be
the developer of renewable energy sources. The government must be present in construction of
the preliminary power plants to obtain the initial experience or triggers. Because now practically
renewable energy economy is moving on the edge of a blade.
Answer to Q5:
Within the next five years from today (we are almost on zero point), we will be far ahead
(through providing infrastructure, laboratories, development of domestic production, the
construction of a significant number of renewable power plants, etc.); of course, in the event that
we continue taking the current steps and the government can provide the necessary resources.
Although it will not be able to say that a good percentage of our energy mix will be supplied
from renewable sources. ([Because of] low coefficient of renewable electricity generation plants
capacity in comparison with [those of] fossil fuels, no electricity production in wind power
plants in the absence of wind, and/or zero power production by solar power plant in the absence
of solar radiation.)
On the other hand, we do not see a significant development in our own country like countries,
such as Germany, China (which because of the vastness of the country, both for domestic use as
well as for global exports, has created industry that can achieve this goal [development of
renewable energy use]), and even Spain (though Spain was not too successful. Because they
proceeded in some sections without any programme and they did not predict some requirements
for services and so on).
Interviewee # 14
Answer to Q1:
1. First, we must believe that renewable energy is a necessity for the country. In other words, [it
is needed to] reform the attitudes and beliefs of some officials who say that we have sufficient
resources of fossil fuels, so why should we go into these energies? For instance, the question

arises that a country like the United States, as one of the world's largest holders of fossil fuels,
why has moved towards the use of renewable energies? Consequently, we should believe that
the world needs these resources [renewables] in the future. It is the world's technological
future [movement] and the belief in authorities to take shape, this field itself has its own way
and capital. In addition, it is noteworthy that only the aspect of energy of renewable sources,
not to be considered. For example, the United States wants to produce a billion tons of
petrochemical products from plants or biomass in 2050. [Other example is related to the] fines
for activities that lead to environmental pollution determined by the trustees in the world and
is practically associated with the world as a global village;
2. According to studies, international scientific organisations state that the only way out the
problems caused by greenhouse gas emissions is the vast development of renewable
resources, accordingly we should not consider ourselves far apart from the move. Energy
efficiency can reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions but how far can continue? Or
to what extent it can be effective?;
3. When desire proceeds towards the use of renewable resources, there will occur industrial
development;
4. We should have a plan for renewable sources, especially for our own country. For example,
Germany may have a good potential of wind but no good at solar energy. Therefore, the plan
of Germany cannot be an appropriate model for our country.
Answer to Q2
1. Low price of oil and gas (fossil fuels);
2. Non-actual electricity prices paid by the consumer. Therefore, in comparison with renewable
resources, practically there is no proper competition;
3. Lack of appropriate improvement for the development of technology that has been installed
on a broader scale, leads to development towards much higher. For example, about 15 years
ago, installation of wind turbines with a power output of 660 kW was reasonable and good.
Production of many parts had occurred in the country [domestic spare parts production].
Nevertheless stopping on the 660 kW with the same production technology, caused the stop in
the development of the [relevant] market;
4. Lack of real desire for the development of renewable sources. (For instance, anaerobic
digesters mainly installed in southern of Tehran have been produced by the Iranian
manufacturers and are among the largest of their kinds in the world.)
Answer to Q3:
It can be very important. (For instance, in the electricity production process from waste in a city,
the environmental responsible people told that your task is polluting! While we wanted to
convert 200 tons of waste into energy. They asked, “How much is the amount of COD [Chemical
Oxygen Demand] and BOD [Biological Oxygen Demand] in the output stream?” We responded,
“Nearly 2000”. They said, “It is pollutant.” We explained that feed of the factory - the associated
factors in - contains the amount of 100,000 units and actually, it drops down to 2,000. Besides,
we had no role in their creation. As long as there is life, the waste is produced. As long as there
are cities, the waste is produced. In the end, we could not convince them, working stopped for

years!) ([Nowadays,] Courses related to renewable energy resources are running in over 600
technical and vocational centres in the country to alert the general public. At beginning, these
courses are running for the staff of these centres. Gradually, they will be switched into the
technical concerns such as the construction of wind turbines and so on. Afterward, they will be
resources for training other people, themselves. Furthermore, we have in mind for those who
have spent these courses, privileges will be granted.)
Answer to Q4:
There are two aspects. Of course, if the work is routine, definitely for the development, the
private sector works much more successfully than the public sector. On the other hand, there
were some areas in the country that we did not have any relevant contractor(s). That means, no
basic science still had not been created. Among the functions of the government, that is the
responsibility for taking jobs without tenure.
Answer to Q5:
Iran has a great potential in the field of renewable resources. These cases can be noted: good
wind, very good sun radiation, 100 to 150 million tons of annual agricultural waste, more than 15
million tons of annual waste in the cities, billions of cubic meters of wastewater. Iran is the
seventh producer of greenhouse gases in the world, compared to the population and our industry,
we are one of the highest polluters in the world and certainly in the future, a lot of pressure on
these countries, including our country will apply in this regard. On the other hand, all oil-
exporting countries and OPEC will be at the spearhead of these pressures. Because, it will be
said that in exchange for greenhouse gas emissions for oil and gas production, you must be a part
of the fines and compensation for damage.
Actually, in attention to the huge resources of oil and gas in the country, we should not only be
looking for alternative renewable sources. But we must seek primarily to create employment that
occur along the extension of the technology to export to neighboring countries and such goals.
[We should be careful that] tomorrow, our country will not become depot (storehouse) for
obsolete wind turbines.
Interviewee # 15
Answer to Q1:
1. Need for a series of protective laws, like other countries. Of course, we are already moving in
this direction, such as providing incentives for purchasing power;
2. To create a very strong executive authority that would move towards the target(s)
Answer to Q2:
1. Availability of cheap fossil fuels, because in other countries the price is higher and more
appropriate, the use of renewable energy sources and to capitalize on have been done as a self-

motivation. Nonetheless, we should actually pass this obstacle in Iran. This barrier is actually
huge investment needed for this area;
2. Lack of trying electricity production partly from renewable sources in recent years (due to
sanctions, the possibility of funding for technologies such as wind turbines, etc. is not among
the priorities. Therefore, decision-makers preferred to spend on fossil fuels which were readily
available.)
Answer to Q3:
View and the status of decision-makers is very, very important. As long as there are not their
positive views; if even a job starts, it will not continue. I think that in this regard, we are ahead
by considering the beginning of activities [regarding renewable energy sources] and the bases
such as foundation of this organisation [SUNA] about 20 years ago by Mr. Chitchian who is now
the Minister of Energy and giving the conviction to the domain of influence in the last two years
with rules that have been enacted and the progress that has been made. In particular, and for
example, the increase of more than double the price for guaranteed purchase of electricity.
Answer to Q4:
In areas such as biomass energy production, high investment required, and also because their
return on investment is nearly high and there are some risks on investment, it is recommended
that the government enters and begin to work out. However, I think that in the photovoltaic and
wind, this problem is solved. Regarding geothermal, I also think that high costs require, like
biomass.
Answer to Q5:
I am very optimistic. (According to current trend that we are observing and the changes in the
terms of substantial amount of enthusiastic contractors, the probable removal of sanctions and
the willingness of foreign investors, particularly in the use of renewable resources. We do not
suppose a tremendous leap forward. However, the industry moves and begins to grow. The slope
of growth may not be very high, but it will be forward.)
Interviewee # 16
Answer to Q1:
1. To make real the actual energy prices (key factor);
2. To provide appropriate policy and strategy for the export of electricity produced from
renewable sources;
3. To obtain international facilities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
4. To remove lack of payments balanced to the income obtained from the implementation of
renewable projects (such as reducing fossil fuel consumption, reducing environmental
pollution, etc.)
Answer to Q2:

1. Lack of real fossil energy prices and the reluctance to use renewable energies in the country
and in the private sector;
2. Absence of the appropriate cycle for quality assessment of domestic and imported products
relevant to the renewable energy sources, such as the lack of reference laboratories;
3. Inappropriate (high) interest rate so that investors tend to deposit in the bank for obtaining
benefits. (No injection of required liquidity for domestic investors in renewable energy field)
Answer to Q3:
It will have a significant impact on implementation.
Answer to Q4:
Of course the private sector. Meanwhile, we cannot ignore the importance of support policies
such as guaranteed purchase of electricity produced from renewable sources, and policies to
encourage people to use renewable sources; e.g. facilities that can be provided by municipal for
citizens. (For example, the municipal announce if the citizens install photovoltaic or wind
turbines in their constructions, part of the work-finishing document price or relevant penalty is
being given up.)
Answer to Q5:
I'm optimistic. Nonetheless, 30 IRR per kilowatt power consumption to invest on renewable
energy field is a temporary treatment. The ultimate success is achieved by reforming energy
prices (to actual).
Interviewee # 17
Answer to Q1:
1. The government to provide the necessary credits [funds] for the development and maintenance
of the existing systems and further development of the systems;
2. The government to try to accomplish on the competitiveness of the private sector to use
renewable energy sources for electricity generation.
Answer to Q2:
1. Required land for installation of the [wind] turbine;
2. Problems for the connection to the national grid;
3. Access roads;
4. Procurement;
5. Guaranteed Purchase [of electricity produced from renewable sources]
Answer to Q3:

Support of senior managers and decision-makers can be quite helpful to invite private
contractors. (With meetings, professional conferences, presence of experts and specialists in this
field / benchmarking from similar projects in other countries)
Answer to Q4:
The government via guaranteed purchase of electricity [produced from renewable energy
sources] from private companies can contribute to the development of renewable energies in the
country through financial support, to encourage companies to provide renewable power plants.
Answer to Q5:
If the private sector to invest in this area and foreign companies to activate after the removal of
sanctions on Iran, the possibility of expanding the use of renewable energy sources as an
alternative to some of the power plants will rise.
Interviewee # 18
Answer to Q1:
In my opinion, the release of the energy market is the major way and the root of many problems
in the country's energy system. Of course, this solution is now out of reach. Currently, the
government manages many parts of the country's important and key energy issues, and on the
other hand private sector is not prepare to tenure these parts. Most important of all, the economy
cannot tolerate this release. Surely, energy market liberalization requires extensive economic
reforms in the country which makes it very difficult.
One of the aspects that energy market liberalization in Iran could help the development of
renewable energy is the release of energy prices. Currently, paying subsidies for fossil energy,
renewable energy projects encounter infeasibility. However, part of this problem is solved via
tariff reform for purchase of renewable electricity this year, still it does not respond.
On the other hand, one of the main drivers of the development of renewable resources in the
world is the environmental issues. Unfortunately, enormous environmental problems in the
country do not enter the higher levels of planning in Iran. Taxes for environmental pollution
associated with conventional systems in the world causes the increasing cost of fossil energy
resources and therefore, economic feasibility of renewable sources increases. For example, in the
United States of America, the government does not allow the installation of fossil power
generation due to air pollution in parts of the city, not even the advanced and updated systems,
and people have no choice but to use clean and renewable power generation.
Nevertheless, some suggestions may be proposed as follows:
1. To impose of taxes on polluting fossil-fuel energy production systems;
2. To increase tariffs for renewable electricity purchase;
3. To facilitate the entry of updated renewable energy technologies;

4. To pay subsidies for the productive sectors of renewable energy generators to reduce the price
and increase the competitive potential of their technology with conventional fossil fuels
systems;
5. To increase public awareness of the benefits of renewable energy systems
Answer to Q2:
1. Low energy prices in the country;
2. Lack of understanding of the importance of developing renewable sources by policy-makers.
At first, this subject may seem not very relevant to policy-makers and said that now the need
is felt, however it should be seen to what extent the major decisions taken in line with the
need to. Just like an effort for the environment which is just talk and talk and when should the
funds be allocated to this sector, we understand that the priority is low and many of the issues
much more less important, absorb the funds;
3. Lack of an agile and flexible administrative system for delegating many responsibilities to the
private sector and the entry of this section into the renewable power plants;
4. Lack of an independent banking system to fund renewable projects so that it removes the
corrupt regimes and eliminates long bureaucratic administrative processes.
Answer to Q3:
Of course, this is very important. Finally, increasing knowledge and insight of policymakers and
decision-makers can largely facilitate the implementation of renewable energy projects. This
experience, at least in the 13 years that I am involved has been clearly visible. In the early 2010s,
decision makers had a fancy look at the renewable energy subject, and naturally the credit
[(fund)] that was given to this sector was very low. However now, this perception and insight
largely has improved and there is more serious look at this issue.
Nonetheless, it is more than that. Unfortunately, lots of management changes at various levels of
ministry, especially in the ninth and tenth governments caused the spending a lot of energy
[(time)] to convince the new managers. In fact, with every change of management at the higher
level, we had to re-invent the wheel. This was the key problem. If a comprehensive system
prevails in this area, there should not be any disturbance in the progress of projects and the
development of renewable energy use with management changes.
Answer to Q4:
In some branches of renewable like solar photovoltaic and wind, the government's tenure does
not help and the private sector should enter. However in other sectors, there are still technical
and technological difficulties, the private sector does not have the capacity and willingness for
investment in these sectors and the government should attempt to construct the related power
plants. For example, in the construction of solar thermal power plants, fuel cells, and waves.
Answer to Q5:
Yes, I am one hundred percent optimistic of course, to supply part of the energy requirements
[from renewable energy sources]. By the way, the reform in purchase of renewable electricity

tariff promises that the private sector is more fortunate on this side. On the other side, the lifting
of sanctions and entry of the technology owners into the country for investment in the energy
sector can be influential in the development of renewable energy.
Interviewee # 19
Answer to Q1:
1. Strategic plan;
2. To attract foreign investment
Answer to Q2:
1. Absence of the private sector;
2. Ineffectiveness of human resources;
3. Unknown policies
Answer to Q3:
Based on existing records: High
Answer to Q4:
Based on existing records: Private Sector
Answer to Q5:
No.
Interviewee # 20
Answer to Q1:
By moving forward several solutions simultaneously:
1. To develop the technology [for making the required] infrastructure in order to empower the
country in the construction and deployment of products;
2. To support the private sector to enter the market;
3. The government to pay subsidies for guaranteed purchase and sale;
4. To cooperate with international developers as a collaborator or consultant
Answer to Q2:
1. Low cost of fossil energy sources and problems regarding irregular consumption patterns;
2. High cost of renewable energy technologies;

3. Inadequate knowledge and lack of full control on all technical issues related to renewable
energy technologies;
4. Lack of efficient and dominant human resources;
5. Lack of governmental funding for the development
Answer to Q3:
With each dismissal and appointment in the level of minister, assistants and deputy directors,
new policies are implemented and consequently, institutionalized practices and demands take its
own time.
Acceptance or non-acceptance of renewable technologies, research topics, beliefs in activities in
a limited and low capacity are among variable impressions and insights of managers.
Answer to Q4:
With the combination of both, it is possible. It cannot be found in the world unless the
government spending billions of dollars for research and development of new energy
technologies or having the strategy document. On the other side, the government alone is not
able to proliferate in the market and private companies accredited by the possibility of
governmental support will play an important role.
Answer to Q5:
Not as a complete replacement. It is possible around a very small percentage of total energy
demand of the country for a special network far from the national grid.

(1395_01_08) Koorosh Razavi Satvati's Dissertation _ Final Confirmed

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