• Predeparture
• Training
• Travel & logistics
• Stations
• Station life & activities
  • Alcohol on station
  • Clothing & toiletries
  • Food
  • Recreation
  • Smoking on station
  • Station amenities & operations
    • Buildings & structures
    • Diving operations
    • Fire prevention
    • Fuel transfer procedures
    • Hydroponics
    • Laboratory facilities
    • Living accommodation
    • Medical facilities
    • Power generation
    • Renewable energy
    • Energy management
    • Site services
      • Electricity & heating
      • Sewage
      • Water
    • Telecommunications
    • Vehicle, small boat & plant operations
    • Waste management
    • FAQs on protecting the environment
    • Environmental improvements with supplies
  • Working in Antarctica
• Field operations
• Family & friends

Electricity and heating

Servicing a generator in the power house Photo: B. Dennis

The stations have similar electrical systems to those we have in Australia. Electrical power is generated by diesel powered alternators located in dedicated power houses. Each station has two power generation facilities: the main power house (MPH) and an emergency power house (EPH).

The ambient temperature inside the buildings is around 18 degrees Celsius with a relative humidity of 32%. The thermally efficient buildings are designed to get the most out of the fuel used. Heat from the engines and exhaust systems is transferred to the site services heating hot water system and used to heat the station buildings. This is called co-generation.

The AAD Operations Branch is working to save energy and develop alternative power sources with the implementation of the Building and Monitoring Control System (BMCS) and an ambitious alternative wind energy project.