Scientists from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and the Brazilian Center for Electric Energy Research (Cepel) have conducted a life cycle assessment to compare the environmental impact of two photovoltaic (PV) projects. The first project featured polycrystalline solar modules mounted on fixed-tilt trackers, while the second project featured the same modules mounted on single-axis trackers. The results of the assessment revealed that the system with single-axis trackers reduced carbon gas emissions by 24%, land use by 20%, and water use by 7%. This demonstrates the potential of single-axis trackers to significantly reduce the environmental impact of PV projects.
The systems' modules originate in Malaysia. The research assumes the trackers, inverters, and transformers are produced in Brazil.
The scientists employed a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) technique to analyze the environmental impact, focusing on three key categories: global warming, land use, and water consumption. The LCA for Systems S1 and S2 encompassed the production, distribution, construction, operation, and maintenance (O&M), and decommissioning phases, but excluded the grid connection, electricity transmission, and consumption phases.
Ultimately, they concluded that, despite their higher cost, PV systems with single-axis trackers should be prioritized in Brazil.
Country updates
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