The Airport In SA Fully Powered By Solar
May 16, 2023 7:01 am
George Airport Is The First Airport In Africa To Be Powered Fully By Solar
1 min read
George Airport is the first and only airport in Africa to run fully on solar power. It is also only the second in the world of its kind. The electricity generated from the numerous solar panels that surround the airport is used to power all things that consume electricity in the airport, such as ATMs, restaurants and the air traffic control centre. The solar plant produces approximately 750 kw a day, of which the airport only uses 400 kw. The excess electricity produced by the airport is sent to nearby homes.
This solar project is said to reduce South Africa’s carbon emissions by 1 229 000 kg. SA is also working on 5 more airports that will be 100% powered by solar. These are Kimberly Airport, Upington Airport, Bram Fischer International Airport, East London Airport and Port Elizabeth International Airport. Currently, approximately 45% of the electricity used by these airports are from solar with the remaining 55% from the grid.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) says it has the goal of becoming the go-to association when it comes to building sustainable airports around the world.
Have you been to George Airport and seen the solar plant? Do you think airport solar plants are the future for airports and solar energy? Share your thoughts by replying to this email!
For more information on solar powered airports, or any other energy related articles, view the blog posts on my website and be sure to open my weekly emails every Tuesday at 9am CAT.
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