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Zahidi M N, Mousawi S A S, Khaliqi N. A Comparative Study of the Costs, Economic and Environmental Benefits of Solar Parking Lots versus Traditional Parking Lots: A Case Study of Khatam Al-Nabieen University Parking Lot. JOTS 2024; 2 (4) :59-82
URL: http://jots.knu.edu.af/article-1-33-en.html

With the increasing use of renewable energy, particularly solar energy, and the growing demand for parking spaces in urban areas, solar carports have emerged as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for energy supply and pollution reduction in urban areas in urban areas. This study investigates and compares the economic performance of solar carports with that of traditional parking structures (iron-frame tents and polycarbonate covers). This study employs the AHP and PROMETHEE methods to analyze and compare key criteria, such as initial costs, return on investment, environmental impact, lifespan, and public acceptance. The significance of this research lies in its multidimensional justification—economic, environmental, socio-technological, and policy-based—making it relevant both scientifically and operationally. The findings indicate that although the initial investment for solar systems is higher, solar carports prove to be significantly more economical in the long-term owing to electricity generation, energy cost savings, and pollution reduction. A case study of the parking facility at Khatam Al-Nabieen University in Kabul revealed that the installed solar system could supply a portion of the university's energy needs, generating over 2.3 GWh of electricity over 25 years and preventing the emission of approximately 947.5 t of CO₂. Overall, this study strongly highlights that sola carports, as a sustainable, economic, and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional parking structures, can contribute to addressing energy and pollution challenges in Afghanistan. Therefore, the multifaceted importance of this study is evident not only in the cost-benefit analysis of solar projects but also in establishing a strategic link between sustainable development goals, technological innovation, and the empowerment of public institutions to play a leading role in the transition to a green economy.