Trinasolar, a global provider of solar photovoltaic and energy storage solutions, has partnered with Smart Commercial Energy to deliver a 4.5 MWp rooftop solar installation at Western Sydney International Airport in Australia. The project, comprising 8,824 Trinasolar Vertex S+ 510W solar modules, represents a major renewable energy integration initiative at the airport, which is scheduled to open in late 2026.
The solar installation forms part of the airport’s clean energy infrastructure and demonstrates how renewable energy technologies can be incorporated into large-scale aviation facilities. The photovoltaic system spans the main terminal roof, both terminal piers, and covered car park walkways, maximizing the available infrastructure for renewable electricity generation.
According to the project partners, the installation is expected to generate more than 5,800 MWh of renewable electricity annually while avoiding an estimated 3,712 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year. Approximately 1.3 MW of the total installed capacity has been deployed on covered walkway canopies, further expanding the airport’s solar generation footprint.
The project was delivered by Smart Commercial Energy, which served as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) provider, in collaboration with electrical contractor Heyday 5 and construction company Multiplex. Trinasolar supplied its Vertex S+ 510W (NEG18R.28) solar modules for the installation.
Given the project’s location within an airport environment, the development required specialized engineering and technical assessments to ensure compliance with aviation safety requirements. Detailed solar glare studies were conducted to minimize potential reflections that could affect pilots and air traffic control operations.
The installation highlights the technical considerations involved in integrating rooftop solar systems into aviation infrastructure, where energy generation must be balanced with operational safety, structural requirements, and long-term performance.
Commenting on the project, Edison Zhou, Head of Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands at Trinasolar, emphasized the company’s longstanding relationship with Smart Commercial Energy and its commitment to supporting major renewable energy infrastructure projects across Australia.
Zhou highlighted the importance of technology reliability, financial bankability, and local after-sales support in helping EPC companies deliver solar projects with confidence. He noted that Trinasolar combines established solar technologies with dedicated Australian technical support to strengthen project performance and customer relationships.
Ben Adamson, Head of Projects and Performance at Smart Commercial Energy, who led the project delivery team, described the development as one of Australia’s largest airport solar installations. He emphasized the complexity of the project and acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the engineering, construction, and technology teams in completing the installation on schedule and within budget.
Huon Hoogesteger, Managing Director of Smart Commercial Energy, highlighted the project’s significance in demonstrating that renewable energy infrastructure can be integrated into major developments without compromising operational requirements or construction objectives.
The Western Sydney International Airport installation also builds on more than a decade of collaboration between Trinasolar and Smart Commercial Energy. Their previous projects include the Goulburn Community Solar Farm, which received the 2026 Clean Energy Council Community Value and Impact Award.
The latest development reinforces the growing adoption of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems across Australia’s commercial and infrastructure sectors, particularly at large facilities with substantial electricity requirements and extensive rooftop areas.
As Western Sydney International Airport prepares to commence operations, the 4.5 MWp solar installation is expected to contribute to its renewable electricity supply while supporting broader efforts to reduce emissions associated with major transport infrastructure.
The project demonstrates how collaboration between solar technology manufacturers, EPC providers, and construction partners can support the integration of renewable energy into complex infrastructure developments, contributing to Australia’s transition toward a lower-carbon energy system.
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