Chennai Airport Goes 100% Renewable

The city airport, which serves around 20 million passengers annually, is now entirely powered by renewable energy. It makes use of a combination of power produced by rooftop solar plants, solar energy acquired from businesses, and power purchased from Tangedco under a green tariff. This was accomplished last month when renewable energy usage increased from 50%. Even the runway and taxiway lighting are powered by solar energy. Of the electrical energy utilized by Chennai Airport, 59% is solar energy being procured through third party power purchase, 3% is being met through the in house 1.5MWp roof top solar plant and remaining 38% is being procured from Tangedco under green tariff. This is part of the efforts to make the facility fully energy efficient, said an Airports Authority of India (AAI) spokesperson. The airport utilizes 63,92,675 kwh per month on average. LED lights were installed in place of the terminal fittings. When the airport began using power from rooftop solar panels installed on the terminal buildings two years ago, it was able to use 50% renewable energy. The airport reduced carbon emissions by 2,200 tonnes annually and realized energy savings of Rs. 100 million through the usage of solar power by utilizing solar energy at the terminals, LED lighting, and efficient air conditioning. The air conditioning is being used effectively, and the lighting has been upgraded to LED. This has assisted in reducing emissions. According to a representative, the recently inaugurated new integrated terminal has a green grade because of how energy-efficient it is built. Although a tender was launched, the AAI's plan to put solar panels on the property on the airport campus did not materialize right away. It was also discussed if the panels' ability to reflect sunlight might interfere with flight operations. The authorities looked at alternative options, such as buying solar energy from a third party, because it was taking so long. Given the location of available land parcels, the airport may decide to install solar panels. Airlines have begun to transition to electric cars in an effort to minimize pollution and improve carbon footprint. As new ground handling companies take over, they will probably introduce electric cars for carrying luggage and aircraft. See also: India plans to use green hydrogen fuel at major ports by 2035 https://www.constructionworld.in/transport-infrastructure/ports-and-shipping/india-plans-to-use-green-hydrogen-fuel-at-major-ports-by-2035/40784 ​​Shipping ministry to establish three Indian Ports as Hydrogen Hubs https://www.constructionworld.in/transport-infrastructure/ports-and-shipping/shipping-ministry-to-establish-three-indian-ports-as-hydrogen-hubs/39780