Feasibility Assessment of Solar Photovoltaics as a Sustainable Energy Source for Power Generation for the IceCube Gen2 Construction

The IceCube Neutrino Observatory, situated at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, has achieved remarkable scientific breakthroughs in particle physics and astrophysics. There is an expansion plan of the observatory named IceCube-Gen2, resulting in a tenfold increase in the detection rate of cosmic neutrinos. IceCube currently relies on fuel generators to operate its sensor modules, computing infrastructure, and the hot water drill that is employed during detector construction. This energy source is not only costly but also unsustainable, posing logistical challenges in the extreme South Pole environment. This research explores the practicality and sustainability of transitioning towards solar photovoltaics as a primary energy source for Gen2. To facilitate this transition, we are developing an energy test station, which we plan to deploy in an Arctic/Antarctic environment. First tests have been conducted at the Bonneville Salt Flats, miming key South Pole conditions (high albedo), to evaluate the bifacial solar panels. This experimentation's results will be further simulated to optimize solar panel array design for maximum power generation. This presentation will cover an analysis of power output from different array designs of solar panels and a comparison of the average power output pattern with prior research findings.