A wind farm has been constructed by Meridian Energy on Ross Island off the Antarctic coast, to help power New Zealand's Scott Base research station and the American McMurdo Station. Once complete, the wind farm will make a significant beneficial contribution to the environment, substantially reducing the carbon footprint from science on the ice, and saving both countries a considerable amount of money. This case study examines some of the construction and environmental issues of the project.

Nature of Technology

• Sociocultural aspects: collaborative practice; economic benefits; environmental impact – the influence of Antarctic environment on key aspects of the Technological Practice including: planning; positioning; material selection and transportation issues; technology used; construction techniques

Antarctic wind farm blows into life at Scott Base – www.tvnz.co.nz video, January 2010

Wind farm to power Scott Base – www.tvnz.co.nz video, December 2009

How a wind farm works
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N8mBPZ2l
Q8
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B2IgB2n4A
Q

Turbine manufacturer's web site
www.enercon.de/en/_home.htm

Extension Activity: For older students –
Discussion starter questions