Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for Hybrid (Wind/Solar) Systems

The increasing urgency to address climate change and the depletion of fossil fuel reserves require the transition to sustainable energy solutions. This thesis explores the optimization and environmental assessment of hybrid power plants (HPPs) that combine a wind and solar system for reliable and efficient electricity production. Focusing on a case study in Denmark, the research employs the HyDesign tool for techno-economic optimization and a Python-based tool for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The study evaluates multiple configurations of hybrid systems that integrate photovoltaic (PV), wind turbines and battery storage. Key objectives include: 1. Optimization of system size and capacity: Optimization of system size and capacity: Using HyDesign to minimize the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) while maximizing the NPV/CAPEX ratio. 2. Life Cycle Assessment: A custom Python-based LCA framework was developed to assess environmental impacts from raw material extraction to end of life. The tool supports both the ReCiPe 2016 and IMPACT 2002+ methods for comprehensive impact characterization across multiple environmental categories. 3. Economic and environmental balance: Provide insight into the feasibility of hybrid systems through techno-economic and environmental indicators. The results contribute to understanding the potential of hybrid systems to enhance energy security and reliability in Denmark, a country recognized for its progressive renewable energy initiatives. By addressing the intermittency of renewable energy sources, this research supports the deployment of sustainable hybrid power solutions.