Midway Evaluation in Environment and Natural Resources - Jacqueline Colleta D Mwakangale

Title of thesis:
Comparative Evaluation of Hydropower and Geothermal for electricity generation An integrated life cycle assessment and environmental life cycle costing study approach of hydropower in Tanzania and geothermal in Kenya

Student:
Jacqueline Colleta D Mwakangale

Doctoral committee:
Dr. Brynhildur Davíðsdóttir, professor in Environment and Natural Resources at the School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Iceland (supervisor)
Dr. David Cook, Adjunct Lecturer in Environment and Natural Resources at the School of Engineering and Natural Sciences
Dr. Ólafur Ögmundarson professor at the Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition at the School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland

Abstract:
The transition to low-carbon and renewable energy sources, as outlined in the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, necessitates rigorous, evidence-based evaluation that addresses both environmental sustainability and economic viability of future capacity additions. Hydropower and geothermal energy are significant renewable sources due to provision of base load power, being cost effective, and having lower direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than those of fossil fuels. However, the development of these energy systems can result in higher indirect GHG emissions and generate additional adverse impacts that may affect investment decisions and social well-being when accounted for. Focus exclusively on climate change mitigation and GHG emissions reduction through renewable energy expansion risks overlooking other critical impacts. This study applies an integrated methodological framework that combines Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC) and Environmental LCC (ELCC) to systematically evaluate hydropower and geothermal energy systems in Tanzania and Kenya, respectively, from cradle to gate. The LCA follows ISO 14040/14044 standards to quantify environmental impacts across multiple categories throughout the project lifecycle. In parallel, the LCC examines total lifecycle costs, including capital expenditures, operation and maintenance costs, while the ELCC monetizes environmental impacts to account for external costs. By integrating environmental and economic performance indicators, including external costs from a life cycle perspective, this research aims to identify trade-offs between the environmental and economic performances of hydropower and geothermal energy systems through the integrated comparative analysis. The findings are intended to inform decision-making regarding the future development and expansion of hydropower and geothermal energy systems into Tanzania’s electricity mix, support progress toward meeting Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and contribute to the body of knowledge on sustainable energy transitions in emerging economies.