Bioenergy development in Kentucky: A SWOT-ANP analysis

A hybrid Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats–Analytic Network Process (SWOT-ANP) framework was used to assess further development of biomass-based energy production in Kentucky. SWOT-ANP analyses were conducted with a focus group of forest policy experts in a statewide symposium on bioenergy development. Results show that participants perceive negative aspects associated with bioenergy development in Kentucky as more important than positive aspects. This suggests that various negative factors associated with bioenergy development may have to be addressed for ensuring its successful adoption in Kentucky. Results also show that factors influencing bioenergy development in Kentucky are interrelated and that SWOT-ANP can account for some of these interrelations.

► SWOT-ANP is effective technique to obtain expert perspectives on complex issues.
► Weaknesses and threats associated with bioenergy production need to be addressed.
► A stable and predictable demand for bioenergy is important for the bioenergy industry.