Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bengaluru, India, says it has achieved net energy neutral status in financial year 2020-21, meeting its target to become net energy neutral by 2021.
As an outcome of energy conservation efforts, airport operator Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) says it has been able to save nearly 22 lakh units (2.2 million kWh) of energy in the FY 2020-21. It saved nearly 5 lakh units (500,000 kWh) from lighting alone, and has also implemented chiller plant optimization in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), which has resulted in saving of over 17 lakh units (1.7 million kWh). The airport met 98% of its energy requirement for 2020-21 from renewable sources.
“As we expand our operations at BLR airport, we aim to remain the flagbearer of sustainable operations. We have put in place various measures to reduce carbon footprint and protect our environment. Energy security is a very important aspect of our business as it is one of the key indicators to assess our sustainability levels,” said Hari Marar, MD and CEO, BIAL.
BIAL’s Energy Management initiative is focused on achieving carbon neutrality through the use of renewable, green and clean energy, such as through utilizing its on-site solar installations and power purchase agreements (PPA) from solar and wind energy suppliers.
The airport notes it also makes optimal use of natural light with minimum reliance on artificial illumination during the daytime, while other initiatives include the installation of solar street lighting, solar-powered security cabins and a solar water heating system for the cafeterias.
