Eco-Energetical analysis of circular economy and community-based virtual power plants (CE-cVPP): A systems engineering-engaged life cycle assessment (SE-LCA) method for sustainable renewable energy development

Abstract

Amidst the escalating complexity of energy demands and climate concerns, natural calamities, and the Black Swan phenomenon have all presented formidable obstacles to the advancement and implementation of renewable energy sources. In light of the present backlog of studies in energy technology, the three primary issues identified and resolved in this study are inadequate analysis of the actual situation, absence of evidence of sustainable development, and flawed systematic methodology. This study proposes a novel renewable energy development initiative known as the circular economy and community-based virtual power plant (CE-cVPP). By integrating community participation and circular economy principles, this initiative aims to foster sustainable development and facilitate resilient progress. The principal focuses of the model are community renewable energy supply, energy demand, and community participation management. The sustainable framework is constructed upon the principles of circular economy theory. The systems engineering-based life cycle assessment (SE-LCA) method is proposed as an innovative approach to whole life cycle assessment that is grounded in systems engineering. Its purpose is to facilitate a systematic implementation and empirical evaluation of the sustainability of energy, the environment, and the economy. On the basis of disparities in renewable energy sources and a variety of spatiotemporal dimensions, CE-cVPP is categorised into four representative groups. We present a business community model for energy and environmental analysis that is based on a hospital in Harbin. The results suggest that the overall lifecycle primary energy conservation rate is 67.21%, which is an exceptional outcome that significantly promotes sustainable development in comparison to conventional methods. This improves environmental and human health protection as the full lifecycle emission reduction ratios for atmospheric pollutants are 53.50% (SO2-eq.), 51.69% (PM2.5-eq.), and 74.85% (CO2-eq.). Consideration is given to raw materials, equipment construction, equipment operation, tariffs on six pollutants, and material recycling when calculating the total cost. The annual total cost savings ratio for the full lifecycle is 54.21% when compared to the traditional system. This research possesses methodological and theoretical applicability to the energy and power sectors.