The rise in solar-powered airports brings multi-functionality to these travel hubs as it enables them to simultaneously act as power plants. India is the first country to propose an airport that is entirely reliant on solar power and it will be fully functioning by May 2016.
Cochin International Airport will have 46,150 solar panels, amounting to 300,000 tons of carbon emissions saved over the course of 25 years. Like so many green energy projects, not only will this benefit the environment, but it will also bring economical benefits, generating enough extra power to sell to the State Electricity Board.
With plans already in the making, there will be more solar power integrated into Indian airports in the near future. With the extra power and revenue solar powered airports generate, their success will surely prompt other countries to follow suit.
Solar-Powered Airports
India is Set to Build the First 100% Solar Reliant Airport in the World
Trend Themes
1. Solar-powered Airports - The rise of solar-powered airports presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the travel and energy sectors.
2. Multi-functionality Travel Hubs - The integration of solar power in airports opens up possibilities for multi-functionality, creating opportunities for new services and revenue streams.
3. Economic and Environmental Benefits - The economic and environmental benefits of solar-powered airports create opportunities for sustainable infrastructure projects and cost savings.
Industry Implications
1. Travel and Tourism - The travel and tourism industry can capitalize on the trend of solar-powered airports by offering eco-friendly travel packages and promoting sustainable travel practices.
2. Renewable Energy - The renewable energy industry can leverage the concept of solar-powered airports to drive further innovation in solar energy technologies and expand their market reach.
3. Infrastructure Development - The infrastructure development sector can explore opportunities in building and retrofitting airports with solar power systems to meet the growing demand for sustainable infrastructure.