Integrating the Sustainable Supply Chain With Renewable Energy: A Fuzzy Framework for the Photovoltaic Supply Chain

Abstract

Economic development and energy consumption are temporally correlated. Renewable energy can help overcome contemporary and future pressures, contributing to sustainable development. The aim of this chapter is to provide an integrated multi-criteria decision-making framework based on the fuzzy approach for sustainable chain development in the renewable energy sector. The proposed framework encompasses all components of the photovoltaic supply chain, from raw material suppliers to distribution operations. The framework is based on the characteristic triple bottom line triad (social, economic, and environmental). A literature review is used to identify and evaluate sub-criteria for each dimension, followed by prioritization and operationalization using the fuzzy method. The results show a preponderance of economic indicators, the complementarity of the indicators selected, and the potential for integrating a global approach to photovoltaic supply chain management.