Rome Fiumicino airport once again stands out on the international scene with the inauguration of largest photovoltaic system in self-consumption never achieved in a European airport. Located along the east side of Runway 3, this innovative structure represents a pillar of the energy transition and environmental sustainability.
But what makes this project so revolutionary and what impact will it have on the future of sustainable energy?
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A record-breaking photovoltaic system
The new photovoltaic system in Rome Fiumicino represents a significant step towards energy sustainability in the airport sector. Located along the east side of runway 3, within the confines of the airport, it extends over an area of approximately 2.5 km and is made up of 55,000 monocrystalline silicon panels. This advanced technology ensures high efficiency in converting sunlight into electricity.
With an initial installed capacity of 22 MWp, the plant is capable of producing more 30 million kWh per yearenough energy to satisfy the consumption of approximately 30,000 Italian families.
In addition to meeting the airport’s internal needs, the system contributes to drastically reducing the airport’s environmental impact, avoiding the emission of over 11,000 tonnes of CO2 every year.
The project envisages further expansions over the next five years, with the aim of reaching a total power of 60 MWp, consolidating Fiumicino’s leadership in the panorama of sustainable infrastructures.
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Ambitious goals for the future
The Solar Farm is not just a short-term project, but part of a strategic vision that aims to transform Fiumicino airport into a model of energy sustainability. Within the next five years, the installation of further photovoltaic farms is expected within the airport perimeter, to reach a total capacity of 60 MWp.
This goal aligns with the goal of Net Zero Carbon set for 2030, an ambitious goal that aims at the complete decarbonisation of airport activities.
The plant is not limited to the production of renewable energy, but represents a concrete solution to improve the airport’s energy efficiency, reducing dependence on external energy sources. This integrated approach combines technological innovation and sustainability, strengthening the position of the Roman airport as a European leader in the ecological transition.
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An example of sustainability in the airport sector
The Solar Farm project demonstrates how airport infrastructure can integrate sustainably with the surrounding environment. Optimizing the use of airport land to host the photovoltaic system represents an innovative solution to combine economic growth with the reduction of environmental impact.
Aeroporti di Roma has demonstrated how it is possible to make best use of the available spaces, without compromising the operation of the airport.
This strategic vision was widely praised during the inauguration, where the central role of the project for the future of sustainable air transport was highlighted. The Minister of the Environment, Gilberto Pichetto Fratindefined the Solar Farm as a fundamental step in reconciling the growth of the sector with the need to protect the environment.
Furthermore, the president of ADR, Giampiero Massolo, reiterated how this infrastructure is part of a broader development plan, worth 9 billion euros, aimed at integrating energy efficiency needs with economic ones.
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Collaboration between public and private for the green transition
The creation of the Solar Farm is the result of a close collaboration between Aeroporti di Roma, Enel and Circet, combining technical skills and a common strategic vision for the energy transition. Enel, with its know-how in the renewable energy sector, played a key role in the design and construction of the plant, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can lead to global results.
According to Francesca Gostinelli, Head of Enel
This initiative also confirms the growing commitment of large Italian companies in contributing to the objectives of decarbonisation and sustainability, consolidating the country’s position as a leader in the green transition.
