Expert elicitation survey predicts 37% to 49% declines in wind energy costs by 2050

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date Published

04/2021

Authors

DOI

Abstract

Wind energy has experienced accelerated cost reduction over the past five years—far greater than predicted in a 2015 expert elicitation. Here we report results from a new survey on wind costs, compare those with previous results and discuss the accuracy of the earlier predictions. We show that experts in 2020 expect future onshore and offshore wind costs to decline 37–49% by 2050, resulting in costs 50% lower than predicted in 2015. This is due to cost reductions witnessed over the past five years and expected continued advancements. If realized, these costs might allow wind to play a larger role in energy supply than previously anticipated. Considering both surveys, we also conclude that there is considerable uncertainty about future costs. Our results illustrate the importance of considering cost uncertainty, highlight the value and limits of using experts to reveal those uncertainties, and yield possible lessons for energy modellers and expert elicitation.

Journal

Nature Energy

Year of Publication

2021

URL

Notes

A webinar summarizing the findings of the survey recorded on April 29, 2021, can be viewed here.

Organization

Research Areas

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