THE first phase of a new solar farm development at Bristol Airport has been completed this week.

The airport confirmed that the first phase of the new 2.8-acre solar farm is finished.

A spokesperson from Bristol Airport said: "This week marks the first completed phase of the onsite solar farm here at Bristol Airport.

"It will help us achieve 25% of all energy use generated by renewable sources by the end of 2025."

Customers travelling from Bristol Airport will continue to see development work taking place on the airfield creating the following phases in the solar farm build.

The project to build the 2.8 acre solar farm began in May and is forecast to be completed by summer 2023.

The solar panels (combined with the existing roof mounted panels at the Administration Building and the Car Rental Consolidation Site) will be expected to increase the renewable energy generated on site to at least 16% of the Airport’s direct energy needs over the year. 

All power generated would be consumed onsite. 

The development is also a major component in helping to deliver the Airport’s ambitions to be a Net Zero Airport for its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030. 

Equally, the solar panels are essential for the Airport to meet its target of having 25% of its energy use generated by its own renewable sources by the end of 2025.

Richard Lees, delivery director, 3ti said: “We are delighted to be designing, installing and delivering this solar ground mount project for Bristol Airport and look forward to supporting their sustainable initiatives.

"This important project highlights the commitment of Bristol Airport in pursuing renewable energy sources."

Hannah Pollard, head of sustainability, Bristol Airport added: “We are delighted to see this exciting project take shape, creating our first onsite solar farm.  This is a huge first step in exploring renewable energy that will be consumed on site.

"This project highlights our commitment to making continual improvements now and in the future.”

In other news at the airport, a new Boots store opened in the airside departure lounge last month.

lton-Bateson, Boots Travel MD, said: “We are delighted to open our new Boots store at Bristol Airport, offering an amazing breadth and range of health & beauty products including sun preps, healthcare, toiletries and cosmetics, whilst not forgetting our ever popular Boots Meal Deal.

"We look forward to welcoming passengers in to our store and also offering our great order & collect proposition."