Environmental impacts of solar thermal power plants used in industrial supply chains

Gobio-Thomas, Lisa Baindu; Darwish, Muhamed; Stojceska, Valentina

doi:10.1016/j.tsep.2023.101670

Cited by 10 publications

(4 citation statements)

References 42 publications

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“…), which prevents quick and precise comparisons of published results. In [73], the lack of standardization of tools and methods to avoid discrepancies in LCA results was highlighted again; this time, discrepancies were observed in tools such as SimaPro [19], Gabi [18], System Advisor Model (SAM), Umberto, and Thermoflex + PEACE, giving contradictory results. Additionally, it is essential to note that studies revealed that solar thermal plants emit considerably less GHG than fossil fuel-based power plants.…”

Section: Solar Thermal Communitymentioning

confidence: 99%

“…There is also no uniformity in the results. Various environmental assessment tools such as SimaPro [19], Gabi, System Advisor Model (SAM), Umberto, and Thermoflex + PEACE produced contradictory results due to different approaches to managing characterization factors [73].…”

Section: Solar Thermalmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…This perspective highlights the importance of integrating LCA findings with broader decision-making frameworks to achieve sustainable outcomes. Integrated LCA that addresses environmental and economic aspects is crucial for making more informed decisions [73]. For new technological products experiencing rapid growth, deciding on materials used is critical to ensuring environmental sustainability.…”

Section: Integrating Life Cycle Assessment With Decision-making Proce...mentioning

confidence: 99%

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Life Cycle Assessments in Renewable Energy: Solar and Wind Perspectives

Portillo,

Alcayde,

Garcia

et al. 2024

Preprint

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The growing urgency for sustainable energy solutions necessitates a deeper understanding of the environmental impacts of renewable technologies. This article aims to synthesize and analyze Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) in this domain, providing a comprehensive perspective. We systematically categorize 2,923 articles into four communities: (1) Photovoltaic systems, (2) Wind energy systems, (3) Materials for auxiliary industry of photovoltaic and wind systems, and (4) Solar thermal systems. A comparative analysis is conducted to identify methodological consistencies and disparities across these communities. The findings reveal diverse methodological approaches and a range of environmental impacts, highlighting the complexities in assessing renewable energy systems. The article underscores the significance of material selection in photovoltaic and wind systems, providing a critical overview of the current state of LCA research in renewable energy and stressing the need for standardized methodologies. It also identifies gaps in recent research, offering insights for future studies focused on integrating environmental, economic, and social considerations in renewable energy assessments.As a case study, an LCA was used to evaluate two energy supply methods for a sensor network: one connected to the public grid and another powered by a photovoltaic panel. The off-grid system, while more environmentally friendly by reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources, posed challenges due to the high environmental impact of battery production and disposal. Integrating environmental assessments provides a robust framework for making informed decisions on sustainable technologies. The findings are critical for projects that balance technological needs with sustainability goals.

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Section: Solar Thermal Communitymentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Solar Thermalmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Integrating Life Cycle Assessment With Decision-making Proce...mentioning

confidence: 99%

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Life Cycle Assessments in Renewable Energy: Solar and Wind Perspectives

Portillo,

Alcayde,

Garcia

et al. 2024

Preprint

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“…To overcome this situation, the United Nations has declared several sustainable development goals, which include clean energy, clean water, sustainable cities, etc. All these goals are interlinked, and their attainment can give the sustainability of the earth [169,170].…”

Section: Environmental Impact and Sustainability Considerationsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Experimental Treatment of Solar Chimney Power Plant—A Comprehensive Review

Biswas,

Mandal,

Bose

et al. 2023

Energies

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Solar chimney power plants (SCPPs) are encouraging sustainable energy sources due to their low cost, abundance, low maintenance, and eco-friendliness. However, despite significant efforts to optimize SCPP design, their efficiency and power generation capabilities remain limited. Researchers have explored modifications in plant geometry and hybridization to improve efficiency. Despite extensive work in this area, commercialization of SCPPs has not yet been achieved. Most of the research is numerical and may differ from real-world practical use. The number of experimental studies is also relatively small. To facilitate commercialization, further investigation with practical and feasible dimensions is required. This comprehensive review paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of experimental approaches and advancements in the field of SCPPs. The paper begins with an introduction, highlighting the background, significance, and objectives of the review. It provides an overview of the plants, discussing their principles and operation as innovative renewable energy systems. The historical development and evolution of solar chimneys are explored, shedding light on their progression over time. Case studies of operational hybrid SCPPs are examined to showcase real-world applications and performance. The paper also addresses environmental impacts and sustainability considerations associated with SCPPs. Furthermore, recommendations for future research and development in this field are provided to guide researchers and industry professionals. This study focuses on the possibility of commercialization of both standalone and hybrid SCPPs.

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