ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE ELECTRICITY GENERATION: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW AND INTEGRATED HYBRID LIFE CYCLE SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT

Abstract

The growing global population intensifies the demand for electricity, underscoring the need for sustainable energy technologies. Fossil fuel reliance has driven the exploration of cleaner alternatives such as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). This dissertation applies a Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) to evaluate LNG-based electricity generation, addressing environmental, social, and economic dimensions. A systematic review of 443 articles reveals significant research gaps, particularly in full life cycle assessments, integration with decision-making tools, and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To address this, the study introduces Sustainable Value Chain Management (SVCM) as a complementary strategy, emphasizing carbon footprint reduction, circularity, and responsible procurement. Further, the study explores the human and environmental impacts of transmission substations, showing that recycling-based practices can mitigate climate effects by 35%. A detailed case study analyzes LNG-based electricity generation in the UK using LNG imported from Qatar, integrating multiregional input-output analysis and Aspen Hysys simulation across eleven stages. Results show that natural gas extraction accounts for 96.23% of total energy consumption, while power plants contribute 67.42% of greenhouse gas emissions. Economic hotspots include high operational costs and resource intensity, while socially, LNG shipping, though a major employment driver, presents compensation disparities. Sensitivity analysis identifies regasification and shipping logistics as key leverage points for sustainability improvement. Overall, the study offers practical guidance for industry and policymakers, advocating for optimized LNG logistics, advanced liquefaction, and renewable energy integration as pathways toward sustainable electricity generation and a more resilient energy future.