Why Airports Are Turning to Microgrids?

Did you know that a single power outage can cost an airport up to $1 million per hour? With air traffic control systems, passenger services, and runway operations relying on constant power, it's no wonder airports are adopting microgrids at an unprecedented rate.  

As sustainability targets tighten and energy reliability becomes non-negotiable, forward-thinking airports like San Diego International have already made the leap, future-proofing their operations. Are you ready to follow their lead, or will your airport be left in the dark when the grid goes down? 

Here's why airports are racing to adopt them and how you can stay ahead of the curve. 

Origins and Early Adoption of Microgrids in Airports 

Microgrids in airports are a relatively new thing, evolving from broader advancements in energy technology, particularly in the early 2000s. Microgrids are localized energy grids that can operate independently or in tandem with the main power grid, offering a self-sustained power supply. 

Airports began experimenting with microgrid technology for several key reasons: 

• Energy Independence: In remote locations or areas with unreliable grid power, airports sought ways to ensure continuous operations. Microgrids, incorporating renewable energy sources like solar and wind, became a natural solution. 

• Post-9/11 Security Concerns: After the tragic events of 9/11, the need for airport security extended beyond passengers and physical infrastructure to energy systems. Ensuring that airports had resilient energy grids capable of withstanding both natural and human-induced disruptions became a priority. 

• Environmental Awareness: As climate change concerns intensified, airports looked for ways to reduce their environmental impact. Microgrids, which often integrate renewable energy sources and energy storage, became attractive for airports seeking to minimize their carbon footprint. 

Airports like San Diego International Airport and Denver International Airport were among the early adopters. They saw microgrids as an opportunity to bolster energy resilience while aligning with broader environmental goals. 

Case Study: San Diego International Airport 

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is a prime example of how airports can use microgrid technology for greater energy resilience and sustainability. 

In 2019, SAN began the process of installing a microgrid system that incorporates solar power and advanced energy storage solutions. This microgrid, managed by Schneider Electric, was designed to power crucial operations such as terminal lighting, HVAC systems, and airfield lighting. 

How Evans Can Help Airports Move to Microgrids 

When transitioning to microgrids, airports require more than just cutting-edge technology; they also need robust control rooms to manage the complex energy systems involved. This is where Evans can help. 

With over four decades of experience in designing and building control rooms, Evans has extensive expertise in both the airport and utility sectors, making us uniquely qualified to assist airports in their move toward microgrid systems. 

• Tailored Solutions: Every airport has different needs, and we specialize in creating custom control room solutions that fit the unique demands of each project. Whether managing renewable energy, air traffic systems, or emergency responses, our control rooms are designed to optimize operational efficiency. 

• Utility Expertise: Because microgrids involve utility-scale management of energy, our expertise in working with utilities positions us as a valuable partner. We understand the intricacies of energy distribution, storage, and monitoring, ensuring that your control room can handle the demands of a microgrid system. 

• Sustainability-Driven Design: As more airports adopt sustainable practices, our control rooms are designed to integrate with energy management systems that prioritize renewable energy use, monitor carbon emissions, and manage energy storage. 

• 24/7 Operation: Our control rooms are engineered for continuous operation, just like the microgrid systems they manage. This means that airports can rely on their control systems to run efficiently around the clock, ensuring safety and reliability. 

At Evans, we take pride in being a trusted partner to airports as they transition to more sustainable and resilient energy systems. If your airport is considering implementing a microgrid, our team of experts can help design and build a control room that will meet your operational needs and contribute to a more sustainable future. 

To wrap up

As airports continue to explore sustainable and resilient energy solutions, microgrids have proven to be a practical and forward-thinking option. Early adopters like San Diego International Airport are already seeing the benefits in terms of energy reliability, cost savings, and sustainability. 

By building the right control room, you can ensure your airport’s microgrid operates smoothly, securely, and sustainably. 

Contact Evans today to learn more about how we can support your journey toward energy resilience.