Life Cycle Carbon Footprint Assessment of a Low-carbon Solar PV Tracker
Abstract
This study conducts a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of solar photovoltaic (PV) trackers, comparing a traditional design with a new low-carbon option. Solar trackers are known to increase energy production by up to 30%, resulting in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions throughout their lifespan. The baseline system employs steel using the Blast Oxygen Furnace (BOF) method, whereas the enhanced design uses recycled steel produced via Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology. The results show that sourcing materials locally, utilizing sustainable packaging, and opting for EAF steel can cut emissions by as much as 42%. These outcomes underscore the vital importance of sustainable design in renewable energy and environmental science.
Keywords
Life Cyvle Aseessment, Carbon Footprint, PV Tracker, EAF Steel, Sustainable Design.