Solarcentury celebrates launch of East Africa’s largest solar powered airport, Moi International Airport

Senior officials from UN and Kenyan aviation bodies will visit Mombasa’s Moi International Airport today for a special event to launch Solarcentury’s new 503 kWp solar installation on site.

Officials from the UN’s specialised agency for civil aviation, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, as well as Kenya Airports Authority and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, will all attend to mark the launch of East Africa’s largest solar powered airport in Mombasa, Kenya.

Solarcentury’s ground-mounted installation at the airport will generate more than 830,000 kWh per year and offset 1,300 tonnes of CO2 annually.

The solar panels are connected to the airport’s grid and will reduce the use of grid power as well as back-up generators – saving on power and fuel bills.

Guy Lawrence, Director of Solarcentury East Africa said: “We’re excited to welcome so many aviation officials to site today, to what is the largest solar powered airport in East Africa. The International Civil Aviation Organisation is leading the world in reducing airport carbon emissions and we are pleased to be part of this very important mission.”

The solar park is connected to the airport via an 11kV transmission line. Lithium batteries installed in the airport will provide 15 minutes back up for the airplane servicing equipment at both terminals when there are power outages.

As part of the build, Solarcentury will install two kiosks in the airport terminals to educate the public on the benefits of solar power and the science behind it.

Solarcentury will continue to provide operations and maintenance services on site for two years after completion.