Calculation Model of Carbon Emissions in the Electric Power Industry’s Life Cycle Based on LCA Method

Climate warming has become an environmental issue of common concern for all mankind. Among them, the power generation industry contributes the most to greenhouse gas emissions in China. However, power industry lacks recognized and standardized greenhouse gas accounting and carbon emission accounting standards in China. In this paper, a carbon emission model for the entire life cycle of electricity production-transmission-distribution-consumption is proposed, which provides a theoretical basis for evaluating the emission intensity of power generation and electricity consumption in the industrial sector or residential activities. Firstly, a carbon emission model for all links of electricity production, transmission, distribution, and consumption was established. Secondly, combined with the characteristics of the power industry, the LCA method was improved. Finally, a carbon emission calculation model for the entire life cycle of electricity production-transmission and distribution-consumption was obtained. This model is of great value for in-depth research on carbon emissions in the power industry, and it also provides feasible and reliable support for further research and implementation of energy-saving and emission-reduction technologies.