Development and application of photovoltaic noise barrier system for sustainable transportation infrastructures from a life cycle carbon perspective

The global pursuit of sustainable development prioritizes affordable clean energy, prompting a worldwide transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources. Solar photovoltaics (PV) have emerged as the most cost-effective energy source and play a crucial role in sustainable development due to their accessibility and scalability. Given their high potential for urban integration, diverse application methods must be explored. This study developed a photovoltaic noise barrier (PVNB) system for urban transportation infrastructures to enhance carbon reduction in urban environments. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted to evaluate the system’s embodied carbon emissions and carbon savings from PV operation. The analysis considered the service life and degradation of PV components to quantify practical carbon reduction benefits. The results confirmed that minimizing degradation and extending the lifespan of PVNBs are essential for maximizing carbon reduction. The analysis of holistic life cycle carbon emissions, which considered both operational and embodied emissions, showed that it would take approximately 3–4 years to offset the embodied carbon emissions of PVNB production and approximately 5–6 years to offset the emissions of PVNB field construction. The results further indicated that the expected life cycle carbon reduction effect by manufacturing a PVNB instead of NB ranged from a maximum of 13,046.71 kgCO₂-eq to a minimum of 8035.13 kgCO₂-eq. This study represents the first comprehensive holistic life cycle carbon analysis of a PVNB designed for urban transportation infrastructures considering the embodied carbon and the degradation rate in relation to the life span. The methodologies and findings provide valuable insights for integrating PV systems into urban infrastructures to enhance sustainability.