Construction activity to build Scotland’s largest airport-based solar farm is underway following the completion of the development phase of the project.
Glasgow Airport, in partnership with energy transition adviser and developer Ikigai Group, has completed the development phase and the subsequent financial close for a 20MW array with Zestec Renewable Energy.
Approximately £18.5m is being invested to create the solar farm.
The 40-acre ground-mounted scheme will be located on Glasgow Airport-owned land next to Barnsford Road.
It will be built in phases to accommodate the current and future demand of the airport as well as neighbouring businesses which will be able to access low-cost, green energy via power purchase agreements.
Construction will take place over the coming months, with completion of the first phase expected in summer 2024.
The plant will be owned and operated by Zestec, which is owned by funds managed by Octopus Energy Generation.
Operations director of Glasgow Airport Ronald Leitch said: “The development of the solar farm marks a key milestone in our sustainability journey by giving the airport the ability to generate clean energy on-site.
“This will advance our plans to decarbonise our own operations while supporting the net zero ambitions of our airport partners and neighbours.
“Importantly, it also creates the foundation to turn the airport into an energy hub and allows us to progress our plans to support zero emission flight.
“We are looking forward to working with Ikigai and Zestec, both of whom share our vision for a sustainable future.”
Following a successful tender process led by Ikigai, Zestec was selected as the preferred partner to undertake the development, including construction, procurement and operation of the project.
Chief operating officer of Zestec Toby Smith said: “We are excited to include this solar plant in our growing family of behind-the-meter solutions designed to help Glasgow Airport decarbonise its operations.
“Our collaboration with the airport and Ikigai aligns perfectly with our goals.”