Cradle to Gate + EOL
Identity ID
cbbb032a-7d4c-4664-9c3e-26d1b35565e6
Materials
Associated ID
5478b924-759b-4ff9-98d1-f56ca648ac9f
Included activities starts
Included activities ends
Description
This dataset represents the component replacement, recycling, and disposal of a single onshore wind turbine with a rated power of >=4, <5 MW during its technical service life. For component replacement services during wind power operation, it is assumed that each turbine replaces one blade and 15% of generator components within its technical service life, with an average transportation distance from the manufacturer to the replacement site of 476.91 km. Therefore, the main raw materials consumed are wind turbine components and blades, while the primary energy consumption is the electricity used for replacement. For the dismantling, recycling, and disposal phase of wind turbine components, it is assumed that 90% of metal materials (such as steel, iron, aluminum, and copper) and wood in the wind turbine structure (including the tower) are recovered; resin, glass fiber, plastic, rubber, and other materials are incinerated; and other materials are disposed of through landfilling. The technical service life of the wind turbine is consistent with that of the wind farm, which is set in accordance with official specifications and standards: the technical service life of onshore wind farms is 20 years, and that of offshore wind farms is 25 years. The data are mainly sourced from published literature and empirical values.
Activity Description
The process boundary includes component manufacturing, transportation to the site for replacement, dismantling, recycling, and disposal phases, but excludes the service use phase.
Process Description
This process represents component replacement and recycling disposal of a single onshore wind turbine with a rated power of ≥4 MW and <5 MW during its technical service life.
Time period
2023
2026
Geography
China
Geography comment
Based on industry average data.
Macroeconomic value
Business-as-Usual
Data validation
Yes
Technology
Current Technology
Technology comment
For component replacement services during wind power operation, it is assumed that each turbine replaces one blade and 15% of generator components within its technical service life, with an average transportation distance from the manufacturer to the replacement site of 476.91 km. Therefore, the main raw materials consumed are wind turbine components and blades, while the primary energy consumption is the electricity used for replacement. For the dismantling, recycling, and disposal phase of wind turbine components, it is assumed that 90% of metal materials (such as steel, iron, aluminum, and copper) and wood in the wind turbine structure (including the tower) are recovered; resin, glass fiber, plastic, rubber, and other materials are incinerated; and other materials are disposed of through landfilling. The technical service life of the wind turbine is consistent with that of the wind farm, which is set in accordance with official specifications and standards: the technical service life of onshore wind farms is 20 years, and that of offshore wind farms is 25 years.