Embodied Energy
The total amount of energy required to extract, process, manufacture, transport, and assemble a product, embedded in the final product.
Real World
A typical silicon solar panel requires approximately 250–750 kWh of energy to manufacture, meaning it must operate for 1–4 years before generating more energy than it consumed in production.
Exam Focus
In evaluate questions, calculate or reference energy payback period to demonstrate that embodied energy affects net sustainability benefit.
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