Airports consume hundreds of thousands of kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity daily. This high consumption is driven by the need to power vast lighting areas, HVAC systems, commercial tenant spaces, and parking facilities.
For comparison, the parking area at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport consumes an average of 2,275 kWh per day. That figure accounts only for the parking area, excluding operational spaces and business-class passenger lounges.
On average, utility costs account for 10–15% of an airport's total operating expenses. While this percentage may seem small mathematically, the impact of a power disruption would be significant.
Airports naturally have emergency electrical systems in place; however, management can improve energy efficiency by installing solar power systems (PLTS).
This article explains the implementation of solar power systems at airports and the associated benefits. Read on to learn more!
What is a solar power system (PLTS) at an airport?
Solar power systems are installed on building rooftops, in vehicle parking areas, and on dedicated land to generate clean electricity that supports airport operations. The electricity generated powers lighting, air conditioning, baggage handling systems, and even electric vehicle charging stations.
Why are airports should consider solar power systems?
Installing solar power systems offers numerous benefits for an airport's sustainability, both economically and otherwise.
1. Reduced operational costs
A primary benefit of installing solar power systems is the reduction of operational costs. Airports can lower their electricity expenses by utilizing two power sources: the national grid (PLN) and self-generated electricity from solar panels.
2. Low carbon emissions
Solar power systems can significantly reduce carbon emissions. For instance, Indianapolis International Airport reduced its carbon emissions by 39,000 metric tons annually through the installation of solar panels.
3. Building a positive image among consumers
Airports that utilize solar power for their daily electricity needs can enhance public trust and improve their image. Demonstrates a commitment to clean energy usage and offers future business benefits.
Types of Solar Power Systems for Airports
There are three types of solar power systems (PLTS) suitable for implementation at airports:
1. On-Grid
An On-Grid solar system is directly connected to the main power grid—in Indonesia, this is the PLN grid.
On-Grid systems utilize solar power during the day and switch to grid electricity (PLN) at night. This approach is well-suited for peak demand periods and ensures utility reliability.
Typically, On-Grid systems are roof-mounted to maximize direct sunlight exposure.
2. Off-Grid
An Off-Grid solar system operates independently. Since it is not connected to the main grid, energy captured by the solar panels is stored in batteries for later use.
Off-Grid systems can operate autonomously around the clock. They are frequently used in airport areas located far from urban centers.
In terms of location, Off-Grid systems are situated in dedicated areas designed to house the solar panels and facilitate operations for maintenance teams and engineers.
3. Hybrid Solar System
A Hybrid solar system combines On-Grid and Off-Grid technologies. Energy from both solar sources and the grid (PLN) is stored in batteries, ensuring reliability and operational flexibility. This system allows for the use of either grid electricity or battery power.
Regulations for Solar System Installation at Airports (Indonesia)
Indonesia has established regulations for installing solar power systems at airports to ensure safety and convenience, preventing any disruption to airport operations.
- Decree of the Director General of Civil Aviation No. SKEP/124/VI/2009: Guidelines for the Implementation of Environmentally Friendly Airports. - ESDM Regulation No. 2 of 2024: Regulations regarding quotas, capacity, and permitting for rooftop solar PV installations.
- Regulation No. 2 of 2021: Standardization of airport facilities concerning electrical equipment requirements and safety within airport areas.
In addition to government regulations, solar PV installations at airports must utilize PV panels featuring an anti-reflective coating. This measure prevents "flash blindness" for pilots during takeoff and landing and assists Air Traffic Control personnel in the tower with area identification.
Airport solar PV systems must also comply with Flight Operation Safety Area (KKOP) regulations to ensure operational safety. The systems are positioned at heights below 15–45 meters within the inner zone.
Equally important is ensuring that the solar PV system does not interfere with aircraft communication frequencies or airport navigation radar. You can consult the Batary Energy team to identify safe installation points that avoid interference with airport frequencies.
Stages of airport solar PV installation
The installation of solar PV systems at airports involves several stages, including:
- Site Assessment and Planning
- Permitting and Approvals
- Procurement and Delivery
- Mounting System Installation
- Solar Panel Installation
- Electrical Wiring and Inverter Setup
- System Testing and Commissioning
- Final Inspection and Grid Connection
Case Study: Airport Solar Power Plant (PLTS) Project by Batari Energy
Batari Energy undertook a solar power plant project at the airport in Bau-Bau City, Southeast Sulawesi. Betoambari Airport in Bau-Bau is situated at an elevation of 32 meters above sea level and frequently serves local flights within the Sulawesi region.
The solar power plant at Betoambari Airport utilizes a ground-mounted hybrid system with a capacity of 200 kWp, following a system revitalization.
Airports in Indonesia Utilizing Solar Power Plants (PLTS)
Airports are ideal locations for the implementation of solar power plants. In addition to Betoambari Airport in Bau-Bau, several other airports in Indonesia have installed solar power systems to meet their electricity needs.
1. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport
Soekarno-Hatta Airport installed 720 solar panels with a capacity of 241 kWp on the roof of the Airport Operation Control Center (AOCC) building. Additionally, Terminal 2 features a solar power system with a capacity of 1.50 MWp.
2. Kualanamu Airport
Kualanamu Airport in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra, has a solar power system installed with a capacity of 761 kWp. The installation is located at the cargo terminal and the airport administration building.
3. Ngurah Rai Airport
Ngurah Rai Airport utilizes solar power for its operations. The airport, located in Bali, employs 288 solar panels with a capacity of 115 kWp.
4. Ahmad Yani Airport
Ahmad Yani Airport utilizes solar power systems installed on the canopy of the Administration Building and the roof of the Main Power House. The airport, located in Semarang, uses 186 solar panels with a capacity of 100 kWp.
5. Banyuwangi Airport
Banyuwangi Airport installed a solar power system covering an area of 600 square meters with a capacity of 35.1 kWp.
Consult with Batari Energy on Solar Power System Installation for Airports!
Installing solar power systems at airports involves complex stages to ensure airport operations remain uninterrupted. Therefore, you can contact Batari Energy for consultations covering everything from site surveys to the actual installation.
Click this link for more information!