Pittsburgh International Airport expands solar field to boost clean energy and regional sustainability
Posted: 1 May 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Pittsburgh Airport adds over 11,000 solar panels, enhancing its microgrid and cutting regional carbon emissions significantly.
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), in partnership with Duquesne Light Company (DLC) and IMG Energy Solutions, has announced a major solar field expansion, reinforcing its commitment to energy innovation. This marks DLC’s first power purchase agreement, aimed at boosting regional clean energy production and supporting economic growth.
Details on Pittsburgh International Airport’s solar expansion
The project will add 11,216 high-efficiency solar panels across 12 acres, adjacent to the airport’s existing eight-acre solar array. The expansion is expected to generate 4.7 megawatts of clean electricity, reduce carbon emissions by around 5 million pounds annually, and provide renewable energy to the regional grid. Completion is set for 2027.
“The expansion of more than 11,000 solar panels to Pittsburgh International Airport’s existing solar field is a fantastic step toward a more sustainable energy future for our region,” said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato.
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PIT’s existing solar array, part of a 23-megawatt microgrid launched in 2021, already powers the airport using natural gas and solar energy. The expanded array will be located atop a closed landfill, repurposing otherwise unusable land for energy production.
“Pittsburgh International Airport is an energy leader, and we are thrilled to partner with Duquesne Light Company and IMG for this important regional project,” said airport CEO Christina Cassotis. “We are maximising the use of airport assets for the betterment of the region – from air service to real estate development to energy innovation and there’s more to come.”
IMG will own and operate the expanded field, supplying 100% of the energy and Renewable Energy Credits to DLC to support its default service customers.
“DLC is thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking project,” said DLC CEO Kevin Walker. “We’re helping to drive economic growth and bringing to life our vision of a more sustainable future for all.”
Mike Brady, VP at Liberty Energy, added: “This project reinforces our commitment to delivering flexible, high-performance energy solutions that provide reliable, low-emissions power.”
The project underlines the airport’s role as a regional leader in clean, resilient energy development.
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Related topics
Airport construction and design, Airport development, Airport leadership, Airside operations, Cleaner, Greener Airports: Making Aviation More Sustainable Series, Emissions, Green energy, Innovation, Sustainability, Sustainable development
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Duquesne Light Company (DLC), IMG Energy Solutions, Liberty Energy
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Christina Cassotis, Kevin Walker, Mike Brady, Sara Innamorato
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