New Antarctic station is first polar base to rely on wind power

The station is the only polar base operating entirely on renewable energies, according to the supplier of the 6 kW wind turbines, Proven Energy.

Scotland-based Proven Energy says most polar bases rely on diesel generators because wind turbines, until now, were not thought to be robust enough for such severe weather conditions.

The turbines will operate in average winds of 53 mph and winter gusts of over 200mph - providing 230 volt electricity for the station’s heating, computers, lights and scientific instruments.

Proven