How does a micro smart grid work?

Managed by a Programmable Logic Controller, the smart grid reaches an installed energy that is ten times superior to the energy production, making the station's micro smart grid three times more efficient than any existing network.

Why does research in Antarctica leave a significant environmental footprint?

Research in Antarctica generally leaves a significant environmental footprint because of the high energy requirements. Several stations already use renewable energy, but still depend on fossil fuels to meet energy needs for research and heat production.

Are green energy sources constant in Antarctica?

Green energy sources are usually not constant, especially in Antarctica. Because the station cannot endlessly create energy to meet an uncontrolled demand, all station's inhabitants have to adapt their demand to the quantity of available energy. A central computer monitors available energy and distributes it according to a set of strict rules.

Can solar power be used in Antarctica?

Although advancements in technology are now making solar a more viable option for use in the polar regions, there is already a history of solar power supporting scientists in the Arctic and Antarctica. For example, the British Antarctic Survey’s Halley VI research station is powered by a combination of solar panels and wind turbines.

Can solar panels run in Arctic and Antarctica?

In fact, some studies suggest that cooler temperatures can help solar panels run more efficiently. Instead, solar panels rely on solar radiation to produce energy. So, the question isn’t whether the Arctic and Antarctica are warm enough, but whether they get enough sun exposure. The fact is that we can use solar panels at the poles.

Why does the energy switch turn green in Antarctica?

If energy can be delivered according to the system's priorities, the switch turns green, if not, the switch remains red and the user has to wait. Because of the changing weather conditions in Antarctica, the energy production is not always optimal.