The embodied energy in a wind turbine, that is, the energy used in its manufacture, transport, erection and operation is generally paid back within 6-12 months of operation.
Factors influencing energy payback time include:
- Turbine Size: Larger turbines typically have shorter energy payback times relative to their output because they produce more energy.
- Location and Wind Resource: In areas with strong and consistent wind (high capacity factor), the energy payback time will be shorter.
- Manufacturing and Materials: The production of materials, such as steel for the tower and composites for the blades, accounts for a large part of the turbine’s energy consumption. Advances in material efficiency and design have helped reduce the energy required to manufacture turbines.
- Transportation and Installation: The energy used to transport components (especially for remote or offshore sites) and the energy required for cranes and other heavy equipment for installation can vary. However, even these energy demands are typically “paid back” within a short period.
Over its lifetime, a turbine can produce more than 50 times its embodied energy.
Learn more: Energy Payback and Return on Energy (Vestas)
