Airports play a key role in the economy of the community, region and state where they are located. While aviation is poised towards sustainable business practices and cleaner energy sources, airports can move from being passenger and aircraft hubs to energy hubs. They will not only produce and store energy for their own use, but also for the use of their community. Surplus energy can be stored in battery systems and put to use during peak hours, emergencies; and in so doing, airports can operate beyond sunlight and sunset hours so that pilots in the continent can put their planes to use more profitably.
In January 2025, Rome Fiumicino Airport unveiled its new solar farm located along the eastern side of Runway 3. This solar farm extends for almost 2.5km and represents a unique infrastructure in the international airport. The new plant is the biggest airport photovoltaic system in Europe and among the largest in the world. From reports it will reach a capacity which would be enough to satisfy 50 percent of current airport energy demand, which is said, will amount to the annual energy needs of 30,00 Italian households in one full year.
Airports are transforming into “Energy Cities” or “Aerotropolises” which are integrating energy- efficient technologies, renewable energy sources, and sustainable infrastructure. Not only does it reduce their environmental footprint, but it can serve as a competitive advantage and differentiator for airports in Africa as they grow the airports in number and revenue.
The recent incidence at Heathrow underscores the importance of energy to an airport and the surrounding community. London’s Heathrow Airport was shut down entirely recently following a major power outage caused by a fire at a nearby electrical substation. It was reported that the disruption forced flights to turn back midair or divert to alternate locations. In Africa where energy sufficiency is still a challenge, airlines find themselves grappling with power sufficiency in their destination airport when they have had to leave their originating airport late due to some constraint.
Airports in becoming energy cities, are incorporating on-site renewable energy sources as wind, solar, and geothermal power to reduce dependence on fossil fuel. They are adopting energy efficient technologies including LED lighting, energy efficient HVAC systems, and smart building management systems. Airports are incorporating sustainable infrastructure like green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. They are also investing in energy storage systems and advanced grid management technologies to optimise energy distribution and manage peak demand. They are also promoting the adoption of electric and hybrid – electric vehicles including ground handling equipment and airport shuttle buses.
Airports as energy cities have benefits not only on the path to sustainability but also for energy security and as a source of non-aeronautical revenue in serving communities around it with energy.
When airports transition to renewable energy sources as well as energy – efficient technologies, they can reduce to a large extent their greenhouse gas emissions. This can lead to reduced dependence on fossil fuels, improving energy security and reducing the risks associated with changing energy prices. It is also a visible demonstration of the airport’s commitment to sustainability, and so enhances their reputation while contributing to a more sustainable aviation industry.
When airports become energy cities they can then manage and effectively reduce energy costs, create new revenue streams as they sell energy to other users. The airport becomes attractive not only for airlines but also for other businesses who are assured of energy for their investments.
