The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), which currently meets 67% of its energy requirements through solar power, is aiming for 100% reliance on renewable energy by next year. On Wednesday, a solar plant generating 3.5 MW of power was inaugurated. The plant has come up on eight rooftops on the premises of the airport.
BIAL MD and CEO Hari Marar said that the airport has increased its consumption of solar power to over 50 MU (million units) through on-site and off-site solar power purchase agreements in a phased manner. The first phase was commissioned in 2017.
Talking about sustainable measures taken by the airport, he said that 400 high pressure sodium vapour lamps on the air side have been replaced by LEDs. The move has helped the airport save 11.5 lakh units of electricity annually.
Integrating lakes
The airport has sought the help of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc.) for sustainable water management. There is a plan to integrate five lakes in its vicinity. The largest lake is located on the north eastern part, is spread over a length of one kilometre and width of 150 metres.
Six abandoned wells were rejuvenated, helping KIA draw 5 lakh litres every day. Mr. Marar said that by next year, the airport will be self-reliant and will stop sourcing water from the BWSSB.
Partial closure during Aero India 2019 show
Speaking about the partial closure of the airport to facilitate the Aero India 2019 show, Mr. Marar said it will not cause inconvenience to air passengers.
“Aero show needs partial closure of the airport for a certain number of hours. The schedule for closure was announced a long time ago. We have sat with all the airlines and rescheduling of services have already been done. We do not foresee any problem. In the previous edition of the Aero India show, there were no problems. In fact, more people travel from the airport during the show,” he said.
The airport will be partially closed between February 14 and 24 for practice followed by the main show.
