Work has now begun at Changi Airport on what will be Singapore’s largest single-site rooftop solar panel system.
Changi Airport Group (CAG) has embarked on an ambitious solar photovoltaic (PV) project in partnership with Keppel.
The initiative involves the design, construction and operation of a large-scale solar power system across various areas of Changi Airport, marking a major step in Singapore’s renewable energy ecosystem.
Solar power generation initiatives at Changi Airport
The project, scheduled for completion in early 2025, aims to install a total of 43 megawatt peak (MWp) of solar power systems.
Of this capacity, 38 MWp will be allocated to rooftops, cementing Changi Airport’s position as home to Singapore’s largest single-site rooftop solar PV system.
In addition, 5 MWp will be generated from a solar power system installed within the airport’s airfield. This is a pioneering move to harness the potential of solar power beyond traditional rooftop spaces.
Impact and benefits
The impact of this work is far-reaching. Once operational, the rooftop and airfield solar power systems are expected to generate enough energy to power more than 10,000 of his four-room HDB apartments a year.
This significant contribution is in line with CAG’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, and will reduce emissions by an estimated 20,000 tonnes per year, approximately 10% of 2019 consumption.
Overcoming challenges: Unique considerations
Implementing solar power systems within an airport environment presents unique challenges. Rigorous simulations were conducted to ensure compliance with air traffic control operations and aviation safety standards.
Factors such as glare, glitter effects, and potential interference with communication systems required careful attention during the planning and implementation stages.
Central to the project’s success is the integration of Keppel’s Operations Nerve Center (ONC) located within the Keppel Infrastructure @ Changi Building.
ONC facilitates remote monitoring of solar metrics, real-time reporting, and advanced fault detection.
ONC promises optimized energy management, predictive maintenance, and improved operational outcomes by leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.
Promoting sustainable innovation
Koh Ming Sue, Executive Vice President of Engineering & Development, CAGhighlighting the importance of this initiative in Changi Airport’s sustainability efforts.
He highlights the airport’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint through a multi-pronged approach, including energy-efficient upgrades and supporting clean energy initiatives.
“CAG strives to make Changi a more sustainable aviation hub by reducing carbon emissions from all practical aspects.”
“We have focused our core efforts on airport energy needs, including upgrading frontline airport buildings and systems with best-in-class energy-efficient models and helping airport communities transition to clean energy vehicles. This includes expanding support for
Future prospects
Looking ahead, Mr. Lim Yongwei, General Manager, Infrastructure Division, Keppelexpressed enthusiasm for continued cooperation with CAG.
“Once completed, this ground-breaking 43MWp solar power project will make a significant contribution to making the Changi Airport hub more environmentally friendly and is a testament to Keppel’s capabilities and innovation.
“We look forward to continuing to work with CAG to explore further decarbonization and sustainability solutions.”
Beyond current projects, both companies may be poised to explore further decarbonization and sustainability solutions.
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