With the completion of a three-megawatt solar installation on the top deck of two Terminal 1-Lindbergh parking structures, Minneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP) is now Minnesota’s largest solar generation site.
The project also included the conversion of more than 7,700 metal halide light fixtures in the four parking ramps to LED technology. Plus, four vehicle charging stations were installed, bringing the airport’s total to 18. In all, the project is expected to generate around 20 percent of MSP’s total peak power capacity.
“The Metropolitan Airports Commission has worked for decades to operate Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport as sustainably as possible, investing millions in infrastructure to reduce impacts to soil, water and air quality, and spending nearly a half-billion dollars on noise mitigation around MSP,” says Jeff Hamiel, executive director and CEO of MAC. “This solar project is a major step forward in use of renewable energy at MSP International Airport.”
Energy efficiency and renewable energy company Ameresco developed the solar infrastructure and LED lighting upgrade and will both maintain and operate the system for MAC.
“Together we celebrate a major step forward in renewable innovation in the state of Minnesota—today the largest solar site in the state to date is now operational,” says George P. Sakellaris, president and CEO of Ameresco. “Ameresco commends the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and applauds its leadership team for its stewardship both in pursuing renewable energy solutions for the airport, as well as obtaining public-private financing to support the construction. Ameresco is honored to be a sustainability partner in this innovative project, and we take pride in contributing to local job creation as part of achieving energy savings and sustainability.”
The solar project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 6,813 metric tons every year, which is the equivalent of taking 1,434 passengers off the road.
Xcel Energy was a key contributor to the project, providing a $2.1 million grant from its renewable development fund.
“We’re pleased to partner with the Metropolitan Airport Commission on its ambitious solar initiative,” says Chris Clark, Xcel Energy regional president. “As a first and last stop for travelers, the airport’s visibility showcases Minnesota’s commitment to increasing renewable energy use and improving the environment.”
