Evaluation of renewable energy sources in peripheral areas and renewable energy-based rural development

The main results of the study consist of the estimation of three main renewable energy sources-solar, wind, and biomass energy-and the generation of maps showing the potential for solar, wind, and integrated biomass energy at a high spatial resolution. In addition, we have measured and mapped the total renewable energy potential available for supplying the local energy demand. The renewable energy potential maps, combined with a multidimensional index expressing the development level of localities, are good predictors of appropriate locations for the development of renewable energy source-based facilities. The study concludes with recommendations towards the use of the renewable energy potential maps as criteria for project allocation in future for renewable-based rural development, in order to achieve a more balanced regional development.