Modularisation as enabler of circular economy in energy infrastructure. (April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mignacca, Benito; Locatelli, Giorgio; Velenturf, Anne
• Is Part Of: Energy policy. Volume 139(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-04
• Subjects: Modularisation -- Circular economy -- Sustainability -- Energy infrastructure -- Megaproject; Energy policy -- Periodicals; Politique énergétique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 333.79
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2020.111371
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4215

Abstract

Abstract: Existing energy infrastructure have a technical and/or economic lifecycle predetermined by the lifetime of certain components. In energy infrastructure, the residual lifetime of civil structure or other components with a longer life is usually wasted. Modular energy infrastructure can be reconfigurable decoupling the life of the infrastructure from their modules, and extending module and/or infrastructure lifecycle. Modularisation could become a cornerstone to enable circular economy (CE) and enhanced sustainability. Remarkably, despite the growing interest among policymakers, practitioners and academics in both CE and modularisation, there is a lack of knowledge about the link between CE and modularisation in energy infrastructure. Through a Systematic Literature Review, this paper derives the gap in knowledge regarding the link between CE and modularisation in energy infrastructure. This link is then investigated in other sectors identifying relevant implications such as reduction of construction waste and achievement of the closed-loop material cycle. Furthermore, the case of Yamal Liquefied Natural Gas project is used to compare and contrast two perspectives: "Traditional modularisation" and "Modular CE". Lastly, the paper discusses existing policies, provides policy recommendations to foster "Modular CE" in energy infrastructure and suggests a research agenda. Highlights: There is a growing interest toward both modularisation and circular economy (CE). There is a gap in knowledge about linking modular energy infrastructure and CE. Modular CE decouples the lifecyle of a plant from the lifecycle of its modules. YAMAL LNG case is used to compare "Traditional modularisation" and "Modular CE".