Mapping Renewable Energy among Antarctic Research Stations

Magnus de Witt (), Changhyun Chung and Joohan Lee
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Magnus de Witt: Alaska Center for Energy and Power, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 1764 Tanana Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99775-5910, USA
Changhyun Chung: Department of Future Technology Convergence, Korea Polar Research Institute, Songdomirae-ro 26, Incheon 21990, Republic of Korea
Joohan Lee: Department of Future Technology Convergence, Korea Polar Research Institute, Songdomirae-ro 26, Incheon 21990, Republic of Korea

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-15

Abstract: This paper presents an overview of current electricity generation and consumption patterns in the Antarctic. Based on both previously published and newly collected data, the paper describes the current status of renewable-energy use at research stations in the Antarctic. A more detailed view of electricity systems is also presented, demonstrating how different types of resources may be used and combined. The paper will serve as a guide to various renewable-energy generation technologies, highlighting well-established praxis, lessons learned, and potential ideas for improvement. Several renewable electricity generation technologies that have proven effective for use in the Antarctic environment are described. as well as those that are currently in use. Finally, the paper summarizes the major lessons learned to support future projects and close the knowledge gap. The use of renewable-energy sources has the potential to reduce research stations’ greenhouse gas emissions, making research in Antarctica more sustainable. The availability of high-quality energy is crucial for survival and to allow scientists to conduct meaningful research at research stations under harsh Antarctic conditions.

Keywords: Antarctica; renewable energy; remote energy; energy resources (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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