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Description
This study explores the parametric environmental assessment and optimization of locally manufactured SWTs. The studied system is a horizontal-axis wind turbine designed and built by the community of self-builders. The goal of this work is to support design decisions based on environmental performance by identifying trade-offs between key geometric parameters: mast height and rotor diameter.
To achieve this, we developed a Python tool that integrates OpenAFPM for generator modeling, Brightway 2 for LCA, and Noload for non-linear optimization. A parametric inventory was built using the lca.algebraic library, enabling flexible modeling of system components as functions of design variables. The environmental impacts were assessed using the PEF methodology. Results of the sensitivity analysis show that ADP(MR) is mainly driven by rotor diameter due to copper usage while GWP is primarily influenced by mast height due to the presence of steel and concrete.
A constrained optimization was performed to minimize the environmental score per kWh produced under different site conditions, using a logarithmic wind profile to model wind speed as a function of height. The analysis reveals that optimal configurations vary depending on site characteristics and that a trade-off exists between maximizing energy production and minimizing environmental impacts. Thus, while the rotor diameter consistently reaches its upper bound, indicating no internal
optimum, the mast height exhibits an optimal value that balances material usage with energy gains. Therefore, a large rotor on a short mast seems to be preferable from an environmental point of view rather than the opposite. This work demonstrates the value of combining parametric LCA and optimization to inform environmentally conscious design of energy systems.
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