China pioneers green energy transformation in Antarctic scientific research

China has established itself as a global leader in sustainable polar research by commissioning its first large-scale renewable energy system at Qinling Station in Antarctica. This is reported by CGTN, a partner of TV BRICS.

The hybrid renewable power supply system was commissioned in March 2025. Clean energy sources now account for more than 60 per cent of the station’s total power supply, with the hybrid system capable of sustaining operations for up to 2.5 hours during periods without wind or sunlight.

This ensures continuous green power for essential research and living facilities – a stark contrast to the overwhelming reliance on fossil fuels at over 90 per cent of the more than 90 research stations currently operating in Antarctica.

Furthermore, in 2024, China, in collaboration with international partners, released a comprehensive 12-year development roadmap for clean energy technologies in the region, offering strategic guidance for future research stations.

Photo: iStock