Title: Experience curves for wind power

Authors: Lena Neij, Per Dannemand Andersen, Michael Durstewitz

Addresses: International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics (IIIEE), Lund University, P.O. Box 196, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden. ' Risoe National Laboratory, Systems Analysis Department, P.O. Box 49, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark. ' Institut fur Solare Energieversorgungstechnik e.V., Koenigstor 59, DE-34119 Kassel, Germany

Abstract: The objective of this study was to improve the understanding of the use of different experience curves in energy analysis. The study was based on the application of experience curves to wind power systems, but the approach is generic and can be used in other energy technologies. In the study, experience curves for wind power were developed, and it has been demonstrated that different types of experience curves can be developed for one and the same technology. Depending on the system boundaries used, the market perspective used, the time frame, the manufacturers included and the size of the turbines included, the progress ratios of the curves ranged from 83% to 117%, indicating a cost reduction of 0–17% per doubling of produced or installed capacity. We discuss the interpretation of these curves and the most appropriate experience curve for use in energy analysis.

Keywords: experience curve; wind power; progress ratio; cost reduction.

DOI: 10.1504/IJETP.2004.004585

International Journal of Energy Technology and Policy, 2004 Vol.2 No.1/2, pp.15 - 32

Published online: 26 May 2004 *

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