From LCAs to simplified models: a generic methodology applied to wind power electricity

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Energy Systems Analysis

Background:

• Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is crucial for evaluating energy pathways.
• Comprehensive LCAs can be complex and time-consuming.
• Simplified models are needed for efficient environmental impact assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a generic methodology for creating simplified life cycle impact assessment models.
• To identify key parameters influencing the environmental impact of energy systems.
• To provide a robust and simple tool for decision-makers.

Main Methods:

• Application of global sensitivity analysis to identify key parameters.
• Development of simplified models based on identified influential parameters.
• Case study on onshore wind turbines in European conditions.

Main Results:

• Turbine load factor and wind turbine lifetime identified as the most influential parameters for greenhouse gas (GHG) performance.
• Developed curves to estimate GHG performance based on key parameters.
• Demonstrated that simplified models can avoid extensive Life Cycle Assessment.

Conclusions:

• The proposed methodology enables the creation of simplified models for energy pathway impact assessment.
• Key parameters like load factor and lifetime significantly influence GHG emissions.
• The methodology offers a practical tool for decision-makers to assess environmental performance.