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The energy return on energy investment (EROI) of photovoltaics: Methodology and comparisons with fossil fuel life cycles

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  • Raugei, Marco
  • Fullana-i-Palmer, Pere
  • Fthenakis, Vasilis

Abstract

A high energy return on energy investment (EROI) of an energy production process is crucial to its long-term viability. The EROI of conventional thermal electricity from fossil fuels has been viewed as being much higher than those of renewable energy life-cycles, and specifically of photovoltaics (PVs). We show that this is largely a misconception fostered by the use of outdated data and, often, a lack of consistency among calculation methods. We hereby present a thorough review of the methodology, discuss methodological variations and present updated EROI values for a range of modern PV systems, in comparison to conventional fossil-fuel based electricity life-cycles.

Suggested Citation

  • Raugei, Marco & Fullana-i-Palmer, Pere & Fthenakis, Vasilis, 2012. "The energy return on energy investment (EROI) of photovoltaics: Methodology and comparisons with fossil fuel life cycles," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 45(C), pages 576-582.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:45:y:2012:i:c:p:576-582
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2012.03.008
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

    EROI; Photovoltaics; Electricity;
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