How can you incorporate renewable energy into your airport's operations?

As an airport operator, you may be wondering how you can reduce your carbon footprint and save on energy costs. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and biomass, can offer you many benefits, such as lower emissions, enhanced resilience, and improved reputation. In this article, we will explore some of the ways you can incorporate renewable energy into your airport's operations, and some of the challenges and opportunities you may face.

1 Solar power

One of the most common and feasible ways to use renewable energy at your airport is to install solar panels on your rooftops, parking lots, or unused land. Solar power can provide you with clean and reliable electricity, especially during peak hours when demand and prices are high. Solar power can also help you reduce your dependence on the grid, and increase your resilience in case of power outages or disasters. Some airports that have successfully implemented solar power include Denver International Airport, Indianapolis International Airport, and Cochin International Airport in India.

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Ahmad M. Mandili

Director of MRO Operations Systems | Vision 2030 | Executive Management | Operations Technology | Digital Transformation | AMOS SME | Prosci® Certified Change Practitioner
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Solar power presents a promising avenue for integrating renewable energy into airport operations. Installing solar panels on terminal rooftops, parking structures, or vacant land can harness ample sunlight, providing clean electricity to power various facilities. This approach not only reduces carbon footprint but also offers long-term cost savings. However, considering the intermittent nature of sunlight and space limitations, a diversified renewable energy strategy, combining solar with other sources like wind or geothermal, might optimize energy generation for an airport's demanding needs.

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2 Wind power

Another option for renewable energy at your airport is wind power, which can harness the natural airflow around your site. Wind power can complement solar power, as it can generate electricity at night or when the sun is not shining. Wind power can also reduce your noise and air pollution, as well as your greenhouse gas emissions. However, wind power may face some challenges, such as safety regulations, wildlife impacts, and aesthetic concerns. Some airports that have adopted wind power include Boston Logan International Airport, Manchester Airport in the UK, and Galapagos Ecological Airport in Ecuador.

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3 Biomass power

A third way to use renewable energy at your airport is biomass power, which can convert organic waste, such as food, wood, or animal manure, into electricity or heat. Biomass power can help you manage your waste streams, reduce your landfill fees, and create a circular economy. Biomass power can also provide you with a stable and flexible source of energy, as it can be stored and used on demand. However, biomass power may require a lot of space, infrastructure, and maintenance, as well as careful monitoring of emissions and odors. Some airports that have utilized biomass power include Helsinki Airport in Finland, Gatwick Airport in the UK, and Stockholm Arlanda Airport in Sweden.

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Jackeline Charapaqui Reluz

Environmental Studies Manager | Digital Transformation, Innovation and Environment
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Es importante incluir el uso de SAF como combustible sostenible, ya que su uso no genera cambios estructurales en la cadena de suministros ni tampoco en los aviones, en ese sentido, es importante que los aeropuertos consideren su uso.

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4 Energy efficiency

Besides using renewable energy sources, you can also improve your energy efficiency at your airport, which can lower your energy consumption and costs, as well as your environmental impact. Energy efficiency measures can include upgrading your lighting, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, installing smart meters and sensors, and implementing energy management practices. Energy efficiency can also enhance your comfort, safety, and productivity at your airport. Some airports that have achieved high levels of energy efficiency include San Francisco International Airport, Zurich Airport in Switzerland, and Changi Airport in Singapore.

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Jackeline Charapaqui Reluz

Environmental Studies Manager | Digital Transformation, Innovation and Environment
(edited)
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La eficiencia energética es una excelente manera de contribuir con infraestructuras sostenibles, en el caso de Perú, el Aeropuerto Internacional de Chinchero aun en construcción, tiene previsto obtener las certificaciones EDGE "Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies”, y la certificación "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design”, estas certificaciones incluyen, usar menos agua, ahorrar energía, usar materiales que son buenos para el planeta y hacer que las personas que usan el proyecto de infraestructura sean conscientes que contribuyen con no contaminar.

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5 Stakeholder engagement

Finally, to successfully incorporate renewable energy into your airport's operations, you need to engage with your stakeholders, such as your staff, customers, suppliers, regulators, and community. Stakeholder engagement can help you communicate your vision and goals, solicit feedback and input, address concerns and expectations, and build trust and support. Stakeholder engagement can also help you identify and leverage opportunities, such as incentives, partnerships, and innovation. Some airports that have excelled in stakeholder engagement include Copenhagen Airport in Denmark, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands, and Adelaide Airport in Australia.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Georgios L

Battery & Charger Technician | AI-Driven Problem Solver | Sustainable Energy Advocate | Promoting Innovation in Industrial Battery Solutions | Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow
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Transforming airport operations through renewable energy is a sustainable imperative, exemplified by Quebec, Canada's use of clean Hydro power from dams. As a battery service technician, I've observed the shift to battery-powered airport vehicles, using lead acid batteries that are nearly 99% recyclable – a renewable solution. When charged by Hydro power or solar panels, these batteries efficiently power operations while significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Integrating smart energy management systems and investing in innovative technologies further enhances sustainability, making airports global leaders in greener transportation hubs. #RenewableEnergy #AirportSustainability #GreenAviation #SmartEnergyManagement #InnovationInAviation

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How can you incorporate renewable energy into your airport's operations?

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1 Solar power

2 Wind power

3 Biomass power

4 Energy efficiency

5 Stakeholder engagement

6 Here’s what else to consider

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