September 19th, 2024
Three state-of-the-art wind turbines are set to power Scott Base in Ross Island, Antarctica, with more than 90% renewable energy. The EWT turbines (type DW54X-1MW) will replace the three existing turbines that currently supply renewable energy to Scott Base and the neighbouring American base, McMurdo Station, according to Antarctica New Zealand.
The new turbines are scheduled to be transported to Antarctica in the summer of 2023/24.
Antarctica New Zealand's Chief Executive, Sarah Williamson, states that the new wind turbines are part of an extensive upgrade programme for the Ross Island Wind Energy system, showcasing New Zealand's commitment to sustainability. The system reduces the carbon footprint of New Zealand's Antarctic operations and minimises the environmental risks associated with transporting diesel fuel to Antarctica.
One of the new turbines will generate almost as much power as the three current ones combined. When combined with a battery storage system, the new turbines will provide more than 90% of the annual electrical demand of the new Scott Base. As part of the project, a large battery energy storage system will also be installed, and the high voltage network and diesel generators at Scott Base will be upgraded.
The upgrade will allow New Zealand to harness the extreme wind conditions in Antarctica while meeting the higher energy requirements of the new base, which is expected to be operational by 2028.
The EWT turbines will stand at 40m tall (hub height) at Crater Hill, the same location as the existing ones, with a small increase in size from the current hub height of 37m. The first turbine will be installed in the summer of 2024/25, and the other two will be installed the following year.
In Budget 2021, Antarctica New Zealand received funding to redevelop Scott Base and upgrade the Ross Island Wind Energy system.