Posters

Abstract

Antarctica, which has approximately 98% snow and ice coverage, plays a pivotal role in the global climate system due to contributing to the ecological and climatic balance of the Earth. Scientific research conducted in this region yields fundamental topics that inform predictions regarding the future trajectories of the global climate, facilitate the examination of polar ecosystems, assess the potential for sea level rise, and monitor changes in ice sheet dynamics. Presently, numerous research stations are engaged in scientific investigations across this region that are profoundly influenced by the effects of global climate change. Research stations in Antarctica need energy to operate sustainably. Therefore, assessing the potential of renewable energy sources is crucial to fulfilling energy demands while reducing environmental impact.  This study aims to evaluate potential wind energy resources at some selected research stations in Antarctica. By utilizing wind speed and direction data obtained from the ECMWF Reanalysis v5 (ERA5) dataset, the study aims to calculate the wind energy production potential in these areas. The ERA5 dataset covers the entire globe and provides comprehensive hourly wind data at 10 meters altitude and additional variables at different levels, including the u and v components of the wind. Additionally, elevation data from the Reference Elevation Model of Antarctica (REMA) will be employed to enhance the efficiency of wind turbine placements. REMA is a high-resolution, time-stamped Digital Surface Model with a spatial resolution of two meters covering Antarctica. This research is significant as it investigates the feasibility of harnessing wind energy in research stations that currently lack wind turbines but possess a substantial wind energy potential. Additionally, the findings of this study and similar research efforts will contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions designed to meet the energy demands of research stations in Antarctica.  Supporting research stations in polar regions with sustainable energy sources ensures the continuity of long-term scientific studies and observations in these regions. The use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar energy provides a critical solution to provide uninterrupted energy and contribute to scientific research while minimizing the environmental impact of research stations.