Solar farm to be built at El Paso International Airport

A new solar farm will be built at the El Paso International Airport, according to the City of El Paso.

Approximately 40 acres of airport property on the airfield, northeast of runway 8R 26L, have been identified for a ground-mounted solar panel system that will offset the airport’s energy consumption, as well as the energy consumption of other city departments, the city added.

This site will generate five megawatts of electricity each year, the city said.

Currently, the airport consumes about three megawatts annually.

The additional energy generated will allow the airport to share two extra megawatts with the city, supporting the city’s transition to green energy.

The City of El Paso and El Paso International Airport is proud to be setting the standard towards sustainability as we launch the development of an urban energy plan, one of 30 initiatives identified by El Paso City Council and City leadership to be accomplished by 2030,” said El Paso Director of Aviation Sam Rodriguez. “Urban energy plans address service demand through an affordable, reliable and accessible energy lens while furthering economic development and a healthier environment for the benefit of the entire community.

The project is part of a 30-year partnership with El Paso Electric, which will own and maintain the installation.

Specific rates will be established at a later date following a Request for Proposals process. kfoxtv.com