The Figure shows the GHG emissions of the life cycle phases of ASTEP system for both MAND and AMTP. The manufacturing phase of the ASTEP system produced the highest GHG emissions followed by the operation, transportation and then the waste disposal phase of the components at their end-of-life stage.
- The ASTEP solar thermal system demonstrates strong environmental and economic benefits, particularly when scaled to meet a larger share of industrial energy demand.
- ASTEP reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 9.7 tonnes CO₂ equivalent for MAND and 8.3 tonnes for AMTP.
- When scaled to meet 20% of each site’s energy needs, 950 MWh for MAND and 609 MWh for AMTP, the annual CO₂ reduction increases to 328 and 182 tonnes, respectively.
- Financially, ASTEP systems achieved energy cost savings of €110,054 (MAND) and €143,827 (AMTP), with EU carbon cost savings contributing an additional €139,193 and €119,104.
- Over 30 years, this results in total savings of €249,248 for MAND and €262,931 for AMTP.
- Industrial stakeholder surveys revealed strong acceptance, with 82% confirming ASTEP’s cost-effectiveness and technical suitability particularly for medium-temperature applications (150–400°C).
- The highest social risks in ASTEP component manufacturing were linked to Health & Safety issues, particularly from aluminium insert production in high-risk regional sectors.
- The social risk levels were more dependent on the geographical origin of subcomponents than on material quantities, highlighting the need for careful supplier selection based on regional compliance to H&S and labour policies.
- Public support was also high with 86% acknowledging ASTEP’s environmental value and 79% expressing satisfaction with products made using solar thermal energy.
