Salvador Bahia Airport Expands Solar Capacity, Achieves Self-Sufficiency with 7,000 MWh Generation

Salvador Bahia Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, has marked a notable increase in its solar energy production, generating over 7,000 MWh for its own use in 2023. This represents an average of 600 kWh per month, with an additional 140 MWh increase from the previous year. The boost came primarily from a new installation of 482 kWp on the roof of its International Cargo Terminal (TECA) in December 2023.

Since 2020, the airport has been operating a 4,215 kWp solar plant, enabling it to power 100% of its Passenger Terminal operations through renewable energy sources. Of this, 30% is self-generated from the solar plant, with the remaining 70% sourced from the open market. This shift has resulted in a substantial reduction of 625.05 tons of CO2 emissions in 2023 alone, achieving an impressive 87% cut in carbon emissions since VINCI Airports began its concession in 2018.

Alessandra Reis, the airport’s Environmental Manager, expressed optimism about future energy goals, highlighting plans for increased energy generation and self-sufficiency throughout 2024. The airport’s commitment to sustainability includes managing electricity consumption efficiently and exploring cleaner energy solutions.

The newly installed solar system at TECA covers approximately 3,540 m² and has a capacity to generate 63,420 kWh per month, exceeding the terminal’s energy needs and allowing surplus electricity to be fed back into the grid. The system’s durability is enhanced with corrosion-resistant photovoltaic panels, crucial for the airport’s coastal location near Salvador and Lauro de Freitas.

Having surpassed its target of halving internal carbon emissions ahead of schedule, Salvador Bahia Airport now aims for net-zero emissions (scopes 1 and 2) by 2050, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable airport operations within Brazil.