$498 Million Scott Base Redevelopment Advances in Antarctica
ANTARCTICA — Antarctica New Zealand has signed the main Scott Base redevelopment contract with LT McGuinness for construction on Ross Island. The work forms part of a NZ$498 million program to modernize New Zealand’s Antarctic research station.
The agency announced the contract on July 30, 2026, ahead of the 2026–27 construction season. However, NZ$498 million represents the overall program budget. The announcement does not disclose LT McGuinness’ individual contract value.
Scott Base redevelopment prepares for the 2026–27 season
The coming Antarctic summer’s planned work includes drilling and foundation piling. In addition, crews will ship materials needed for the 2027–28 season.
Construction will proceed across successive Antarctic summers, with approximately 100 days available for work each year. As a result, material readiness and shipping schedules will remain central to delivery.
New accommodation, utilities and science facilities
The first stage centers on a new Base Services Building for accommodation and communal spaces. It also includes refurbishment of the Hillary Field Centre for scientific activity, alongside replacement or upgrades of critical plant and services.
Meanwhile, the wider masterplan allows for future engineering workshops and, eventually, replacement science facilities. Stage 1 targets completion in 2030; those later stages form part of a much longer development plan.
Energy upgrades will also support McMurdo Station
The redevelopment includes replacement of the Ross Island wind farm’s three existing turbines with larger, more powerful units. In addition, a new battery system will store surplus wind energy.
Because Scott Base and McMurdo Station share connected electrical grids, the energy project serves both Antarctic programs. The replacement system will maintain existing renewable-energy agreements with the U.S. Antarctic Program at a minimum.
A revised approach to Antarctic construction
The construction contract follows a reset of the earlier redevelopment proposal, which exceeded the available budget. Following an independent review, Antarctica New Zealand adopted an approach using smaller modules, containerized delivery and conventional shipping.
The revised approach also allows some conventional framing work on site. This replaced an earlier plan involving large modules whose transport presented significant risk.
Parsons brings polar construction experience
During early contractor engagement, LT McGuinness brought in Parsons Corporation to provide technical assistance. Antarctica New Zealand highlighted Parsons’ experience in polar construction management, engineering, planning and logistics, including its work at McMurdo.
For contractors following Antarctic projects, the published scope points to work across construction, utilities, freight and energy systems. However, the construction announcement does not provide recruitment numbers, pay rates or eligibility requirements for individual workers.