Geospatial multi-criteria assessment of hydroelectric site suitability in the West African power pool

Hydropower is a vital renewable energy source for West Africa that addresses environmental concerns and energy security challenges. This study employed a geospatial multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework to assess hydroelectric site suitability across the West African Power Pool (WAPP). Nine biophysical parameters (drainage density, elevation, flow accumulation, geology, land cover, rainfall, slope, soil texture, and stream power index) were sourced from authoritative datasets (SRTM DEM, CHIRPS, FAO, and UNESCO/ISRIC), processed, normalized, and integrated into a Composite Appropriateness Index (CAI) within a GIS environment. The results revealed spatial variability in hydroelectric potential, with the most suitable sites characterized by moderate drainage density, low to moderate elevation (below 536 m), and dendritic flow accumulation patterns. The geology is predominantly Precambrian, with land cover dominated by bare ground and rangeland, and rainfall intensity is higher in coastal regions. Slope gradients are generally low, indicating limited potential energy head for large-scale hydropower but suitability for low-head hydropower technologies. The soil textures are mainly loamy with clay and sand components, influencing infrastructure feasibility. Validation against existing hydropower infrastructure demonstrated strong spatial correspondence, confirming the model's effectiveness for site prioritization. While this study focuses on geospatial suitability mapping, it highlights the implications for hydropower development planning in WAPP and underscores the need for future integration of dynamic hydrological and energy modeling, as well as socioeconomic and infrastructural constraints to provide a comprehensive energy potential assessment. This study offers a valuable spatial decision-support tool to guide sustainable hydropower development and regional energy planning in West Africa.