Sustainable conversion of light to algal biomass and electricity: A net energy return analysis

摘要: Abstract A substantial interest is growing in the cultivation of microalgae as a source biofuel production, considering their relatively high lipid content, fast growth rates, use alternative water sources, and on non-arable land. This paper conducts an energy life cycle analysis for novel hypothetical hybrid system where electricity required generated from semi-transparent PV panels to energise paddle wheels light emitting diodes installed raceway ponds. The combined configuration allows full utilisation solar spectrum, while enhancing photosynthetic productivity reducing evaporation findings study Western Australia show that amount land substantially decreases by 43%, increases 75%, net return remains significantly higher than one, comparison with energised grid electricity. Among range variables affecting performance proposed system, primary demand conversion efficiency LEDs exert highest impact system.