Work has officially begun at Changi Airport on an ambitious solar photovoltaic (PV) project, marking a significant step forward for Singapore’s renewable energy landscape. Changi Airport Group (CAG) has joined forces with Keppel Ltd. (Keppel) for the groundbreaking initiative, which involves designing, constructing, and operating an extensive solar PV system across various areas of the airport.
Scheduled for completion in early 2025, the project aims to install a combined 43 Mega-Watt peak (MWp) solar PV system. This includes allocating 38 MWp to rooftops, solidifying Changi Airport’s position as the host of Singapore’s largest single-site rooftop solar PV system. Additionally, a pioneering move will see 5 MWp generated from a solar PV system within the airport’s airfield, demonstrating an innovative approach to harnessing solar potential beyond conventional rooftop spaces.
Once operational, the rooftop and airfield solar PV systems are expected to generate sufficient energy to power over 10,000 four-room HDB flats annually. This significant contribution aligns with CAG’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, with an estimated annual mitigation of 20,000 tonnes, equivalent to approximately 10% of its 2019 consumption.
Deploying solar PV systems within an airport environment presented unique challenges. Rigorous simulations were conducted to ensure compatibility with air traffic control operations and aviation safety standards. Considerations such as glare, glint effects, and potential interference with communications systems demanded meticulous attention during planning and implementation.
Integral to the project’s success is the integration of Keppel’s Operations Nerve Centre (ONC), housed within the Keppel Infrastructure. The ONC will enable remote monitoring, real-time reporting, and advanced fault detection of solar generation metrics. Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, the ONC promises optimized energy management, predictive maintenance, and enhanced operational outcomes.
Mr. Koh Ming Sue, CAG’s Executive Vice President of Engineering & Development, highlights the initiative’s significance in Changi Airport’s sustainability journey, emphasizing the commitment to reducing the carbon footprint through various approaches, including energy-efficient upgrades and support for cleaner energy initiatives.
Looking forward, Mr. Lim Yong Wei, General Manager of Keppel’s Infrastructure Division, expresses enthusiasm for continued collaboration with CAG, foreseeing the 43MWp solar project as a substantial contribution to making Changi Airport a greener hub. Both entities are poised to explore further decarbonization and sustainability solutions beyond the current project.