Bristol Airport boosts renewable energy generation by 20 per cent

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 06:15 · Archive

Bristol Airport has increased renewable energy generation by 20 per cent this year, with solar arrays producing 1.7 million kWh.

Bristol Airport has achieved a 20 per cent increase in renewable energy generation this year compared to 2025. The airport's solar arrays have produced more than 1.7 million kWh of energy so far in 2026, enough to power around 680 homes for a year.

The renewable energy supports Bristol Airport's commitment to achieve net zero operations by 2030. Clare Hennessey, director of sustainability at Bristol Airport, said the increased output means 'less needs to be taken from the national grid' and credited 'investment in solar panels, as well as electrification of buses' as key initiatives.

The airport operates a 1.5-megawatt solar farm south of the runway and has installed panels on many of its buildings, including the new public transport interchange. The renewable energy powers electric buses, terminal equipment such as flight information screens and coffee machines, and runway lighting.

Later this year, the airport's £10 million energy centre will become operational. The centre uses electrically powered air source heat pumps to heat and cool the terminal, making Bristol one of the first UK airports to eliminate gas heating from its terminal building.

Bristol Airport has also announced funding for research into low-height wind turbines, which could increase renewable output by addressing airport-specific barriers such as radar interference. Under its sustainability strategy, the airport has set an interim target to reduce carbon emissions by 73 per cent by 2027 and is working with the aerospace sector to support the development of zero-emissions flight.

How it is being reported

• Bristol Airport generates 20 per cent more renewable energy this yearBristol Airport has achieved a 20 per cent increase in renewable energy generation this yearGazette & Herald · 9 Oct, 05:00
• Bristol Airport generates 20 per cent more renewable energy this yearBristol Airport has achieved a 20 per cent increase in renewable energy generation this yearWiltshire Times · 9 Oct, 05:00
• Bristol Airport generates 20 per cent more renewable energy this yearBristol Airport has achieved a 20 per cent increase in renewable energy generation this yearSwindon Advertiser · 9 Oct, 05:00
• Bristol Airport generates 20 per cent more renewable energy this yearBristol Airport has achieved a 20 per cent increase in renewable energy generation this yearThis Is Wiltshire · 9 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Bristol Airport · Clare Hennessey · Bristol

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