Airport goes solar to cut energy bills

BIRMINGHAM Airport is planning to cut down on its energy costs after installing solar panels at its new terminal.

The airport has placed more than 200 of the panels of the roof of the building, a move which could help save 22 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year.

The 1.6m x 1m panels will generate 40,000 kWh a year; sufficient to power 12 average sized houses.

The airport has worked in partnership with npower to install the 50kpw solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which will help reduce dependency on mains power electricity.  

This is the first renewable energy and zero carbon installation on the airport site and is part of a wider project to improve its energy management and reduce its carbon footprint.  

Paul Kehoe, the airport’s chief executive, said: “It’s exciting for the airport to present such a visible commitment to energy reduction. Managing our greenhouse gas emissions is a high priority for the company and we’re always seeking new opportunities to work with partners to reduce our carbon footprint.”

From initial meetings in October, npower was able to complete full site surveys, detailed designs, installation and commissioning in just over six weeks. The panels have already had an effect and since December have helped to reduce energy consumption.

Graham Ryott, Development Manager at npower, added: “Birmingham Airport is committed to a sustainable future so installing solar PV as a way of generating energy is fundamental to its ongoing programme in reducing its environmental impact.

“As one of the busiest airports in the country, Birmingham is understandably a large energy user but supplementing its energy use with on-site generation is a positive step for the site’s future and npower is delighted to be involved.”

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