The airport uses a combination of power obtained from Tangedco on a green tariff, power obtained from commercial solar energy sources, and electricity generated by rooftop solar plants
Renewable energy now provides the Chennai airport with all of its electricity needs. According to various news reports, the airport employs a combination of electricity produced by rooftop solar plants, solar energy acquired from companies, and power purchased from Tangedco under a green tariff.
The achievement was made recently when renewable energy utilisation increased from 50%. Additionally, runways and taxiway lights are powered by solar energy.
In reference to this, a representative from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) stated that of the electrical energy used by Chennai Airport, 59% is solar energy that is purchased through third-party power purchase, 3% is satisfied by an internal 1.5 MWp roof top solar plant, and the remaining 38% is purchased from Tangedco under the green tariff.
Reportedly, the airport uses an average of 63,92,675 kwh per month, whereas the terminal fittings were converted to LED lights. Two years ago, the airport achieved 50% use of renewable energy when it started to tap power from roof-top solar panels installed on the terminal buildings.
Reports have it that a series of green steps aimed at cutting emissions, including the use of solar energy at the terminals, efficient use of air conditioning, and the use of LED lights, helped the airport cut carbon emissions by 2,200 tonnes per year, and save 10 crores of rupees through the use of solar power.
Moreover, the newly opened integrated terminal has received a green rating due to its energy-efficient design, according to an official statement.
The AAI had previously intended to install solar panels on the airport campus, however, even after a tender was published, the project was delayed. There have been worries expressed about how the panels' reflections would affect flight operations.
As a result, the authorities investigated alternate possibilities, such as buying solar energy from outside sources. Plans to erect solar panels on specific airport property parcels are still under consideration.
Airlines have started the switch to electric cars in an effort to lessen their environmental impact.