Ameresco Completes Solar-Integrated Covered Parking Project at Killeen Regional Airport

The project aims to significantly enhance the traveler experience by offering covered parking in short-term parking and rental lots, along with an LED retrofit throughout the airport. This initiative not only showcases a strong commitment to sustainability but also provides substantial economic benefits by reducing long-term energy costs. This project in the Central Texas region stands as a testament to the vision outlined by airport leadership and their unwavering dedication to creating a sustainable future.

The 1.2 MW project includes a robust solar energy component, featuring a solar array serving the terminal, a solar array for the rental lot, and a solar array for the short-term parking lot. Additionally, it encompasses a comprehensive terminal lighting retrofit, replacing interior and exterior lights with energy-efficient and longer-lasting LEDs. To further enhance traveler convenience and accessibility, a covered pedestrian walkway has been constructed, seamlessly connecting the terminal to the rental lot.

"Ameresco is proud to partner with Killeen Regional Airport on this solar-powered covered parking project,” said Lou Maltezos, President of Central & Western USA, Canada Regions at Ameresco. “By integrating solar technology and energy-efficient lighting, this great project not only modernizes the airport infrastructure but also delivers significant cost savings."

“This is a day that we have looked forward to for many years,” Mike Wilson, Executive Director of Aviation for the City of Killeen said. “The full project includes a complete LED retrofit of the entire Airport campus. I am very proud of this project because not only will it decrease the airport’s operating budget by lowering our energy costs, but it will also provide a much-needed upgrade to the customer experience.”

The project was made possible through a competitive grant process with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Terminals Program (ATP). The final scope of the project amounted to over USD 7 million, with a grant award of USD 5 million. This investment is estimated to offset 68 percent of the airport's purchased electricity, showcasing a significant step towards energy efficiency and sustainability.

“This marks our city’s first major solar project,” said Mayor Debbie Nash-King. “It stands as a testament to our staff’s proactive approach to environmental stewardship and our commitment to creating a greener future for generations to come.”