Chennai Airport starts running completely on Renewable Energy

In a bid to boost the renewable energy transition, the Chennai Airport has started running fully on renewable energy. The airport has achieved this milestone by using a combination of solar power, wind power, and energy efficiency measures.

(Istock)

The airport has installed rooftop solar panels that generate 10 megawatts of electricity. It has also signed power purchase agreements with two wind farms that generate a total of 20 megawatts of electricity. In addition, the airport has implemented a number of energy efficiency measures, such as LED lighting and efficient air conditioning systems.

As a result of these measures, Chennai Airport has been able to reduce its carbon emissions by 2,200 tonnes per year. The airport has also saved ₹10 crore (US$1.3 million) on its energy bills.


The director of Chennai Airport, G.K. Pillai, said that the airport is committed to sustainability. He said that the airport plans to further reduce its carbon emissions by installing more solar panels and by investing in other energy efficiency measures.


The achievement of Chennai Airport is a significant milestone for the Indian aviation industry. It demonstrates that it is possible to operate an airport in a sustainable manner. The airport's success is likely to encourage other airports in India to adopt similar measures.


Benefits of Running on Renewable Energy


  • Reduced carbon emissions: Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, do not produce greenhouse gases. This means that running an airport on renewable energy can help to reduce the airport's carbon footprint and its contribution to climate change.


  • Lower energy costs: Renewable energy sources are often cheaper than fossil fuels. This means that running an airport on renewable energy can help to save the airport money on its energy bills.


  • Improved air quality: Renewable energy sources do not produce air pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. This means that running an airport on renewable energy can help to improve air quality around the airport.


  • Increased public awareness: Running an airport on renewable energy can help to raise public awareness about the importance of sustainability. This can encourage people to make more sustainable choices in their own lives.


Chennai Airport's achievement of running completely on renewable energy is a significant milestone for the Indian aviation industry. It demonstrates that it is possible to operate an airport in a sustainable manner. The airport's success is likely to encourage other airports in India to adopt similar measures.