Abstract
The modelling aspects of two electricity systems are discussed in this study. These include photovoltaic and wind energy. These two systems are chosen for their interesting potential application to future energy development. Photovoltaic electricity was studied using the twelve distinct grid connected systems in Switzerland. Wind power analysis was conducted from 4 different wind turbines also located in Switzerland.
For photovoltaic power, the technology ultimately depends on developing markets for electronics and photovoltaic power. Wind faces certain uncertainties with regard towards environmental impacts. LCA shows that potential impacts depend on the capacity factor of the plants, lifetime of the infrastructure, and power capabilities. In addition, offshore wind compares even less environmentally favorable than onshore wind. However, there are large offshore areas with significant power capabilities that might be environmentally superior to onshore.