Utilization of Wind Energy at Indian Antarctic Station: Near-Term and Long-Term Objectives

Abstract

National Aerospace Laboratories, Bangalore, has been studying the possibilities of using wind as an alternate source of energy at Maitri and other locations used by Indian Antarctic Expedition members for the conduct of scientific experiments from the XVI Indian Antarctic Scientific Expedition. During the last five expeditions, NAL has collected invaluable information. The general idea of the station’s energy requirements and infrastructure is now available. Some hands-on experience in the use of wind energy at Antarctica has also been gained. Now the time has come where the program must take on a major step in the deployment of WEG systems for the station’s own use and other field camps during summer and winter overtimes.