The only polar base operating entirely on renewable energy will be officially inaugurated in Antarctica tomorrow. The Princess Elisabeth Station will be the first to rely on wind turbines rather than diesel generators for power.

Proven Energy, a Scottish based manufacturer, designed the generators to work in extreme environments. Eight turbines will run in average winds of about 80 kilometres an hour, with gusts of over 300 kilometres an hour and subzero temperatures.

Despite the cold, the turbines will be expected to provide 230 volt electricity for the station's heating, computers, lights and scientific instruments.