Following the recent publication of a carbon roadmap setting out how Bristol Airport will become carbon neutral by 2025 for emissions within its direct control, the air transportation hub has now switched to a 100% renewable electricity supply.
“From next month our terminal and other facilities will be powered by renewable energy – a significant step on our our journey to carbon neutrality,” said Simon Earles, planning and sustainability director at Bristol Airport. “There is more to do, but this is a clear statement of our intent to reduce our direct emissions.”
Electricity is the largest contributor to carbon emissions from on-site airport operations and the three-year agreement with global renewable energy supplier, Ørsted, will see the airport’s annual electricity use of 17 million kWh powered entirely by renewable sources. What’s more, a growing number of aircraft stands are equipped with Fixed Electrical Ground Power (FEGP), reducing the need to use diesel powered engines for essential pre-flight services. Over the duration of the contract an estimated 14,000 tonnes of carbon will be saved across the airport site as a result of the move to renewables – equivalent to the emissions from driving 34m miles in an average car.
Ashley Philips, managing director at Ørsted added: “It’s exciting that an international airport like Bristol is placing such strong emphasis on sustainability. At Ørsted we want to drive the transition to low-carbon energy systems in the UK, and support organisations like Bristol Airport that share this ambition of creating a greener energy future.”
