Material Circularity Index (MCI) assessment of distributed generation technologies for Mexico’s energy transition
Keywords:
Circular energy, Circularity, Distributed generation, Energy planning, Energy ranking, Power plants, Renewable energyAbstract
This study evaluates the circularity performance of ten distributed generation (DG) technologies in Mexico using a streamlined Material Circularity Index (MCI) framework. The analysis integrates Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) data to quantify material flows during construction and End-of-Life stages, with a specific focus on the recovery potential (α) of critical materials, including steel, copper, and silicon. The results reveal significant disparities across technologies. Biogas and hydroelectric systems exhibit the highest circularity scores (0.36), reflecting favorable material recovery profiles, whereas wind (0.15) and solar photovoltaic systems (0.30) are constrained by the presence of composite materials and electronic waste, which limit recyclability. These findings underscore the dominant role of End-of-Life infrastructure in shaping circularity outcomes within emerging energy systems. The study demonstrates that material recovery potential is a critical determinant of circular performance in the Mexican DG context and identifies key technological and systemic barriers to circularity. By providing a comparative, data-driven assessment, this work offers policy-relevant insights to support the transition toward a more resource-efficient and circular distributed energy sector.Downloads
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