The Shannon Airport Group has celebrated a major milestone in its sustainability and infrastructure journey with the official opening of Ireland’s first airfield-located solar PV farm, together with a significant extension to its European boarding gates designed to enhance access and experience for travellers.
A €3.6 million, 1.2-megawatt solar PV farm – comprising over 2,700 bifacial solar panels – has been strategically installed on a 5.5-acre site within the airport’s airfield. It is expected to supply up to 20% of Shannon Airport’s annual electricity needs, significantly reducing reliance on the national grid and fossil fuels by generating renewable energy onsite.
Early trials indicate the installation is outperforming expectations, generating impressive levels of renewable energy including 100% of the terminal building’s full electricity requirement at certain times on peak days.
Supported by a government grant of €1.5 million, the solar PV initiative aligns with national efforts to accelerate Ireland’s energy transition. The grant forms part of almost €2 million in grant aid for Shannon Airport under the government’s Regional State Airports Sustainability funding programme, with the remainder of the grant going towards upgrading the airport’s water system.
In addition to the solar farm, the airport has opened a €3 million, 7,800 sq ft extension to its passenger gates. This is comprised of 4,800 sq ft of new internal space, and 3,000 sq ft of integrated external covered walkways offering extra protection from the elements to passengers as they move from boarding gate to aircraft. This key development improves accessibility and streamlines passenger flow, reinforcing Shannon Airport’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and responding to rising passenger numbers.
The expanded gate area, which serves short-haul routes, has been reconfigured to optimise queuing and circulation space. Located at the eastern end of the existing gates, the extension also improves terminal connectivity to aircraft stands on the east apron, boosting operational efficiency and capacity for short-haul services.
“Today marks a significant step forward in our sustainability strategy and infrastructure development,” said Ray O’Driscoll, Interim CEO, The Shannon Airport Group. “The government support announced by Minister O’Brien in 2024 was much appreciated and will be instrumental in assisting us on our journey to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 51% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050. It has augmented our efforts to implement innovative solutions that enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and promote sustainable practices throughout our operations. The grant was invaluable in delivering our solar PV farm, a key project under our Sustainability Strategy.”
