Bristol Airport says it has switched to a 100 per cent renewable electricity supply of its on-ground operations.
The airport hopes to become carbon neutral by 2025 for emissions “within its direct control”.
It has signed a three-year agreement with global renewable energy supplier Ørsted meaning the airport’s annual electricity use of 17 million kWh will be powered “entirely by renewable sources”.
Electricity used in the terminal and other buildings and aircraft stands are now equipped with Fixed Electrical Ground Power (FEGP).
Bristol says electricity is the largest contributor to carbon emissions from its on-site airport operations. Over the duration of the contract it estimates 14,000 tonnes of carbon will be saved across the airport site – equivalent to the emissions from driving 34 million miles in an average car.
Simon Earles, planning and sustainability director, said: “From next month our terminal and other facilities will be powered by renewable energy – a significant step on our journey to carbon neutrality. There is more to do, but this is a clear statement of our intent to reduce our direct emissions.”
Ashley Phillips, managing director at Ørsted Sales (UK) Ltd, added: “It’s exciting that an international airport like Bristol is placing such strong emphasis on sustainability.”
Bristol Airport has a carbon roadmap, which also includes a commitment to offset carbon created by passengers’ road journeys.