Mumbai International Airport saw quite a flourishing month of August 2021. After witnessing a surge in air passenger traffic over the Raksha Bandhan festival period, the airport was recognised by the Confederation of Indian Industry and received the Energy Efficient Unit award. The award was presented to the airport during the virtual awards ceremony of the 2021 edition of the National Award for Excellence in Energy Management.
The airport has in recent times witnessed clear and structured initiatives in implementing green energy across its site, such as having a carbon management system working towards the goal of being carbon neutral, recycling waste-water systems, and using renewable energy sources. The results of these initiatives can be measured by a 35% reduction in energy usage, thereby saving approximately 38.5 million kWh of energy. Due to the general decrease in air travel during the Covid-19 pandemic, it has allowed the airport to reassess its energy conservation capabilities.
Solar Panels Hit The Rooftops
The implementation of solar energy has been at the epicenter of the airport’s initiatives towards renewable energy. The airport has installed solar panels on the rooftops, contributing to approximately 5% of the airport’s total energy consumption. The success of solar energy can be measured by the fact that during the 2019-20 financial year, the solar energy generated was 5,350,000 kWh compared to just 1,620,00 kWh during the 2016-17 financial year.
Overall, the airport has increased its renewable energy consumption by 44% and intends to continue improving upon this milestone. As an ISO 50001:2018 (Energy Management System) certified organisation, the airport’s operators will undoubtedly target future Energy Efficient awards.
