China is taking the lead in driving the green energy transition in Antarctic exploration, commissioning its first large-scale renewable energy system at the Qinling Station—its newest research facility on the icy continent.
The Qinling Station, operational since February last year, activated its hybrid power supply system this March. This milestone signifies China’s breakthroughs in key technologies for polar energy equipment and systems, according to Sun Hongbin, a leading polar energy scientist at the Polar Research Institute of China.
“Clean energy potentially accounts for over 60 percent of the system’s total power supply,” Sun noted. “The hybrid system can provide approximately 2.5 hours of electricity during periods without wind or sunlight, ensuring short-term green operation of the station’s research equipment and essential living facilities.”
Most of the over 90 research stations across Antarctica rely on fossil fuels for more than 90 percent of their energy, leading to rising carbon emissions. China’s advancements at Qinling Station stand in stark contrast, showcasing a commitment to sustainable exploration.
“How to achieve a clean energy transition in Antarctica is a critical issue for the global scientific community,” Sun emphasized.
Last year, the Polar Research Institute of China, in partnership with other research institutions, released a 12-year development outline for Antarctic clean energy utilization technology. This roadmap provides guidance for the research and development of clean energy technology in Antarctic scientific stations.
Kim Yeadong, former president of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research, highlighted China’s efforts: “By progressively deploying solar, wind, and hydrogen energy systems, China is addressing the challenge of stable energy supply in polar regions, offering a viable pathway for low-carbon station operations.”
These initiatives not only align with global environmental goals but also contribute a Chinese solution to the energy transition in Antarctic exploration, he added.
