Improving electricity data in AusLCI
Electricity data is a key element that underpins most of the economy, impacting various sectors and activities. As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability metrics in Australia, Lifecycles has been updating the electricity data in AusLCI, in line with the upcoming AusLCI v1.43 release. The model is updated annually to reflect changes in fuel and technology mixes, ensuring it remains relevant and accurate.
Lifecycles’ Tim Grant and Jamie Brown recently presented AusLCI electricity updates at ALCAS student webinar to keep the LCA community informed about new developments.
Here are a few key takeaways:
Analysis of the Australian Energy Council’s Electricity Gas Australia data for FY21-22 reveals that fossil fuels still dominate the mix. However, states like South Australia and Tasmania are leading the charge towards cleaner energy sources
The transition from an aggregated Western Australian electricity grid model to a split reflective of the separate SWIS and NWIS electricity grids.
A Residual Mix Factor (RMF) has been introduced into the AusLCI database based on a hypothetical grid mix comprising ‘unclaimed’ energy under a market-based accounting method. The RMF excludes electricity produced from renewables, which are bought and sold separately through contractual instruments, to avoid double counting.
The market-based approach is an alternative method to account for electricity emissions, in contrast to a location-based approach. Location-based modelling relies on regional average production technologies, while market-based modelling considers the consumer's choices within the energy market. The GHG Protocol explains the distinction in more detail here.
Electricity demand has remained relatively flat and even decreased in recent years, but traditional metrics fail to capture self-consumption.
Looking ahead, we can draw on the long-term marginal energy model to provide an understanding of supply dynamics and technological transitions.
A visual analysis reveals significant increases in PV supply over time, with wind energy also contributing substantially more, and a small proportion of hydro. Conversely, gas supply is on the decline.
While emerging technologies may play a role, they currently lack significant volume.
For LCA modelling of future energy demands, the debate between location-based and market-based approaches leans towards the former, as there is a compelling argument for utilising a renewable marginal electricity mix to reflect the evolving production system.
Watch the full video here.