Scotland's Largest Airport-Based Solar Farm Takes Flight as Construction Commences

Glasgow Airport has initiated construction on what is poised to become Scotland's largest airport-based solar farm. The development phase of the project, conducted in collaboration with energy transition adviser Ikigai Group, has been successfully concluded, marking the beginning of the construction phase.

Partnering with Zestec Renewable Energy for a 20 MW array, Glasgow Airport has committed approximately EUR 18.5 million to bring the ambitious solar farm to life. The 40-acre ground-mounted scheme, situated on airport-owned land next to Barnsford Road, will be executed in phases to cater to the current and future energy needs of the airport and neighboring businesses.

The innovative project goes beyond powering the airport itself. Through power purchase agreements, nearby businesses will have access to affordable, green energy generated by the solar farm. 

Ronald Leitch, Operations Director of Glasgow Airport, emphasized the significance of this development in the airport's sustainability journey. "The development of the solar farm marks a key milestone in our sustainability journey by giving the airport the ability to generate clean energy on-site," said Leitch. 

He highlighted the broader impact of the solar farm in decarbonizing airport operations and supporting the net-zero ambitions of both airport partners and neighboring businesses.

"Importantly, it also creates the foundation to turn the airport into an energy hub and allows us to progress our plans to support zero-emission flight," added Leitch.

Zestec, owned by funds managed by Octopus Energy Generation, will own and operate the solar farm. Toby Smith, Chief Operating Officer of Zestec, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "We are excited to include this solar plant in our growing family of behind-the-meter solutions designed to help Glasgow Airport decarbonize its operations."

The construction is set to unfold over the coming months and the first phase is expected to be completed by the summer of 2024.