Cardiff Airport is investing in a solar farm as part of its long-term aim to become carbon neutral.
The Rhoose-based airport, which is owned by the Welsh Government, has signed an agreement with Bridgend firm Cenin Renewables to deliver the project.
The construction of the two megawatt photovoltaic farm is set to be completed within the next 18 months.
It will be located within the perimeter of the airport, supplying the business with electricity via a private wire, with any surplus energy being exported into the National Grid.
It is anticipated that the project will deliver a carbon reduction of some 20,508 tonnes over the next 25 years - a saving of approximately 860 tonnes annually.
This project is the latest development in the airport's mission - not including the impact of airlines - to become carbon neutral over the next two decades.
Mark Bailey, director of airport planning and development at Cardiff Airport,said: “After a huge amount of careful planning and consideration, it is hugely exciting to see this project come to life.
“We’re proud to be working in partnership with a Welsh business who bring with them expert knowledge and a wealth of experience needed to develop this project on our site. When it’s complete it will deliver massive carbon reductions and power the airport.”
In addition to its renewable energy and carbon reduction benefits, the solar farm will create a welcoming, natural environment for biodiversity including bees and some species of wild flowers.
Martyn Popham, director at Cenin Renewables, said: “Cenin Renewables is delighted to have been chosen to work with Cardiff Airport to help them achieve an important part of their comprehensive plan to decarbonise the airport operation.”
