Microgrids

JFK Terminal deploys solar microgrid to mitigate potential grid outages

A solar microgrid at the New Terminal One at JFK International Airport aims to bring clean energy and resilience to the busy airport.
JFK Terminal deploys solar microgrid to mitigate potential grid outages
A solar microgrid under development at the New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport aims to bring clean energy and resilience to one of the country’s busiest airports. (Courtesy: Alphastruxure)

At 7.6 MW, the rooftop PV system would become the largest on any airport terminal in the U.S.

A solar microgrid under development at the New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City aims to bring clean energy and resilience to one of the country’s busiest airports.

With more than 13,000 solar panels and 7.6 MW of generating capacity, the rooftop PV system would become the largest on any airport terminal in the US. The microgrid also is designed to feature 3.6 MW of fuel cells and 2 MW/4 MWh of battery energy storage.

The microgrid is planned to consist of four “power islands,” with each island functioning as a local, integrated energy system with sources of generation, storage, advanced automation, and control. 

As a benefit, the microgrid is expected to immediately reduce greenhouse gas emissions at JFK by 38% compared to grid-sourced energy, according to AlphaStruxure, which will design, construct, and operate the microgrid. AlphaStruxure is a joint venture of global investment firm Carlyle and Schneider Electric.

A rendering of the New Terminal One at JFK International Airport in New York City. (Courtesy: Alphastruxure)

NTO—a consortium of labor, operating, and financial partners including Ferrovial, Carlyle, JLC Infrastructure, and Ullico—is building the privately financed all-international terminal at John F. Kennedy International Airport, in partnership with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Originally published renewableenergyworld.com