Emissions Reduction Fund and Solar Energy

by Pavel Davidyuk, Specialist Consultant - Aviation Safety

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a $2 billion injection into the Emissions Reduction Fund which aims at ensuring Australia can meet the 2030 emissions reduction target and its Kyoto commitments. Some politicians are sceptical about the Climate Change Policy, but figures show that renewables increase competition, slash costs, and deliver clean energy.

I think that a $2 billion injection will provide additional capital for the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to continue finding renewable projects across Australia. This is a good opportunity for Australian airports to reduce their carbon emissions and secure government funds in developing rooftop solar generation. Airport terminal and car park buildings have sufficient space to comfortably integrate solar panels into their roof areas.

Adelaide Airport with solar energy capacity of 1.28 MW and Alice Springs Airport with solar energy generation of 800 kW are excellent industry initiatives in reducing a carbon emission footprint. The solar panels of Adelaide Airport are generating approximately 10% of the airport’s electricity needs whilst Alice Springs Airport produces 28% of its energy needs. The solar farm of Alice Springs Airport was partly funded by the Australian Government through Alice Solar City.

As for the potential impacts of solar farms to aviation, an aerodrome operator will need to assure that the risk of solar glare is addressed.

Aviation Projects has extensive experience in the assessment of solar glare and other risks posed by solar farm developments. If you need help in understanding and addressing the risks to aviation posed by solar farms, please contact us.