Antarctica’s first green research centre

We all know that Antarctica is the most inhospitable place to be. The researchers and scientists working there fight cold weather all round the year. It is also true that so much research needs a lot use of fossil fuel and leaves carbon footprints. Now the Princess Elisabeth Research Station in Antarctica has become the first zero-emission research centre. The base is staffed during the summer season from October to March, when the majority of scientists conduct their research. Almost every inch of the Centre is covered in solar panels! Now we know that half the year, Antarctica sees no sun. And during this time, the centre uses wind energy. Wind turbines are drilled into the granite ridge beneath the snow and ice, removing the need for large concrete foundations. These renewable energy sources melt snow for water, which is filtered and reused on site to reduce waste. The whirl of nine wind turbines generates the reassuring sound of regular clean electricity on base. While other research stations have to use fossil fuels to keep station staff warm, fed and hydrated, the Princess Elisabeth station uses 100% renewable energy supplied by the sun, the wind, and plentiful frozen water. Fun fact Scientists claim that if the West Antarctic Ice Sheet were to melt, it would raise global sea levels by about 16 feet! Princess Elisabeth Research Station