5:15 PM - 6:45 PM
[U02-P02] Assessment of the photovoltaic potential using albedo data from Sentinel-2 satellite imagery for the sustainable operation of a research station in Antarctica
Keywords:Photovoltaic potential, Antarctica, Sentinel-2, Albedo
The polar region has been recognized as the ideal location for climate change research due to its high sensitivity to environmental changes. Field research in these areas primarily relies on research stations, many of which have traditionally depended on fossil fuels, such as diesel for generators, to sustain operations in the harsh polar environment. However, this reliance has resulted in various environmental issues, including air pollution due to fossil fuel usage, and soil contamination from spill accidents. To assess the feasibility of operating existing research stations in a more environmentally friendly manner, we conducted an analysis of the potential for solar energy around the Korean Antarctic Research Station. Solar energy offers a stable alternative energy in extreme environments characterized by low temperatures and strong winds. For this purpose, weather information data around the Korean Antarctic Research Station were obtained. Additionally, Sentinel-2 satellite data, which can provide land surface albedo at specific points around the station, were collected. For solar radiation modeling, a digital elevation model (DEM) was obtained. Subsequently, day length data based on the DEM was analyzed. After analyzing shadows based on location and sun position using the DEM, insolation was calculated while considering the albedo. Utilizing satellite data, the optimal site for photovoltaic power generation was selected by classifying land cover types (e.g., snow/ice, bedrock, etc.) in the vicinity of the study area. The results of this research can facilitate the transition of existing Antarctic research stations to cleaner operations by replacing fossil fuels with solar energy. Additionally, they can inform the development of plans for constructing eco-friendly research stations when establishing new stations in Antarctica.