The Compania Națională Aeroporturi București (CNAB) has initiated a tender for the design and execution of a photovoltaic park with a capacity of 20 MW. This project is specifically aimed at supplying energy to the Henri Coandă International Airport in Otopeni. With an estimated value exceeding 135 million lei, the photovoltaic park will be situated on airport grounds, particularly in the Northwest area, and is intended to support a sustainable self-consumption strategy. It is expected to fulfill about 30% of the airport’s energy needs.
The photovoltaic facility will be directly connected to the Otopeni power plant, and implementation is scheduled over a period of 18 months. This timeline is part of a larger contract that spans 60 months, which includes maintenance services as well. The selection of the site for the photovoltaic park has been done meticulously to ensure that it does not interfere with ongoing aviation operations. Strict criteria have been adhered to, including a Reflection Study, which aims to maintain pilot visibility and ensure safety in air navigation.
This initiative is part of a broader plan, with CNAB considering an extensive investment totaling over 280 million lei, achieving a final capacity of 31.5 MW. This move comes in response to rising operational costs and reflects the aviation industry’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality. The goal is to reduce the airport’s carbon footprint and uphold international environmental certifications.
The commitment to sustainability is a strategic development for CNAB, aligning with global trends within the aviation sector. With the increasing recognition of climate change impacts, many airports are looking to integrate renewable energy solutions, allowing them to meet energy demands while minimizing adverse environmental effects. CNAB’s investment in solar energy is not only an operational upgrade but also demonstrates corporate social responsibility, acknowledging the airport’s role in supporting environmental health.
The decision to invest in a photovoltaic park also addresses financial sustainability. As energy prices rise, generating power on-site can significantly lower energy procurement costs, leading to long-term financial benefits. By providing its energy, Henri Coandă International Airport can stabilize and potentially lower its energy expenses, translating those savings into reinvestment opportunities within airport operations.
Furthermore, the project aligns with Romania’s broader energy strategy, promoting renewable energy usage in various sectors and adhering to EU directives aimed at increasing the uptake of sustainable energy sources. The integration of a solar park at one of the country’s busiest airports not only supports national goals for energy diversification but also positions Romania as a forward-thinking leader in airport sustainability.
Overall, the photovoltaic park represents a significant step towards greener airport operations, emphasizing CNAB’s role in leading the charge for renewable energy in the aviation industry. The anticipated benefits encompass not just operational efficiencies and cost savings, but also a tangible contribution to combating climate change. The project will serve as a model for other airports seeking to incorporate renewable energy solutions, encouraging a shift toward sustainable practices within the wider aviation community.
