China is taking a leading role in the clean energy transition in Antarctica by commissioning a large-scale renewable energy system at its newest research base, Qinling Station. The station, which began operations in February 2024, activated a hybrid solar and wind power system in March. According to Sun Hongbin from the Polar Research Institute of China, this system supplies over 60 percent of the station’s power from clean sources and can provide electricity for up to 2.5 hours even when there is no sunlight or wind, ensuring short-term operation of research equipment and basic living facilities.
Last year, China also released a 12-year roadmap for the development of clean energy technologies in Antarctica, in collaboration with other research institutions. Compared to the heavy reliance on fossil fuels by most of the more than 90 research stations on the continent, China’s efforts mark a significant shift. Kim Yeadong, former president of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research, noted that China is addressing the challenge of stable energy supply in polar regions by deploying solar, wind, and hydrogen systems, offering a viable low-carbon solution for Antarctic operations.