Vertical solar energy at airports can reduce energy costs, generate a revenue stream and improve operational efficiency and public image.
As the world intensifies efforts to reduce carbon emissions and embrace renewable energy, the role of airports in this transition is often overlooked. Traditionally seen as major energy consumers due to the constant demands of air traffic and facilities, airports are now becoming important players in renewable energy generation. A particularly innovative approach that is increasingly gaining ground is the use of vertical solar parks. This article explores how vertical photovoltaic (PV) systems can revolutionize energy production at airports and contribute to a greener aviation industry.
Airports represent some of the most promising locations for large-scale solar energy generation. With large expanses of unused or underutilized land around runways and taxiways, airports can install solar farms without impacting air traffic. In fact, airports are already recognized for their potential as renewable energy hubs.
All around 20% of public airports in the US have adopted some form of solar energy, including rooftop and ground-based systems.
How vertical solar energy benefits airports
- Energy savings and reduction of airports’ carbon footprint
Vertical solar farms can help airports significantly reduce energy costs by generating clean, renewable electricity on-site. This reduces energy bills and also reduces the airport’s overall CO2 emissions, contributing to greener and more sustainable operations.
- Opportunities for additional income streams
In addition to energy savings, airports with large solar installations have the potential to sell excess power back to the grid, creating additional revenue streams. This economic benefit contributes to the attractiveness of solar farms for airport operators.
- Impact on operational efficiency and image
The use of solar energy can improve an airport’s operational efficiency by providing a stable, renewable energy source. Furthermore, it can improve the airport’s public image, positioning the airport as a leader in sustainability and innovation, which is increasingly important in the eyes of environmentally conscious travelers.
Challenges of installing vertical solar near airports
- Potential aviation safety concerns, including glare and disruption to air traffic
One of the main concerns about solar farms near airports is the potential for glare, which can affect pilots’ vision during takeoff or landing. However, vertical solar farms tend to do so ensure less glare than traditional horizontal installations, as they are designed to absorb sunlight from different angles. Strategic placement and the use of anti-glare technologies can further reduce these risks.
- Technical and regulatory challenges specific to airport environments
Airport solar farms face unique regulatory and technical challenges, especially around aviation safety standards. Developers must ensure that solar installations do not interfere with radar or communications systems, and they must comply with strict Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
To address these challenges, developers use advanced anti-glare technology and carefully plan the placement of vertical panels. By placing panels at the right angles and distances from runways, airports can reap the benefits of solar energy without compromising safety.
Future prospects
Several US airports have already embraced solar energy. Indianapolis International Airport is home to one of the largest airport-based solar farms in the world, generating enough power to power 10,000 homes annually. Denver International Airport has that too progress has been made in the field of solar energywith four separate solar panels that together generate more than 10 MW of power.
Worldwide, airports are paving the way for the adoption of vertical solar farms. For example, Frankfurt Airport recently launched the world’s largest vertical PV installation, covering 30.8 hectares and generating 17.4 MW of power. This project serves as a model for U.S. airports looking to adopt similar systems.
U.S. airports can follow in the footsteps of international leaders like Frankfurt by investing in vertical solar technology, adapting it to local regulations and addressing safety concerns with technical solutions. Collaboration between solar developers and airport operators will be crucial to making these projects a reality.
Cornerstone of airport sustainability
Vertical solar farms have the potential to transform energy production at airports. As technology advances and policy support for renewable energy grows, vertical PV installations could become a cornerstone of sustainability initiatives at U.S. airports. With their ability to optimize space, reduce energy costs and reduce CO2 emissions, vertical solar farms offer a bright future for the aviation industry.
Tim Basulto was previously a product manager at Sunstall and is now an MBA candidate at TU Berlin.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the author pv magazine.
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