Levelized cost-based learning analysis of utility-scale wind and solar in the United States

Learning curves play a central role in power sector planning. We improve upon past learning curves for utility-scale wind and solar through a combination of approaches. First, we generate plant-level estimates of the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) in the United States, and then use LCOE, rather than capital costs, as the dependent variable. Second, we normalize LCOE to control for exogenous influences unrelated to learning. Third, we use segmented regression to identify change points in LCOE learning. We find full-period LCOE-based learning rates of 15% for wind and 24% for solar, and conclude that (normalized) LCOE-based learning provides a more complete view of technology advancement than afforded by much of the existing literature-particularly that which focuses solely on capital cost learning. Models that do not account for endogenous LCOE-based learning, or that focus narrowly on capital cost learning, may underestimate future LCOE reductions.

Automated summary

Learning curves play a significant role in power sector planning. By improving upon existing learning curves, we determine the overall learning rates for wind and solar energy and conclude that learning based on the levelized cost of energy provides a more comprehensive view. Future reductions in the cost of energy may be underestimated.