Pittsburgh International Airport has unveiled a new microgrid, making it the first airport in the world to be completely powered by natural gas and solar energy.
The power generated at PIT is the primary supply for the entire airport, including the terminals, airfield, Hyatt hotel and Sunoco. The airport will remain connected to the traditional electrical grid as an option for emergency or backup power if needed. The microgrid will generate power, in part, through onsite natural gas wells and 9,360 solar panels, capable of producing more than 20 megawatts of electricity, spread across eight acres. The airport’s current peak demand is 14 megawatts.
“Our region has innovation in its DNA, and the construction of this microgrid reflects the work that has been done at the airport to maximize public safety and sustainability,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Allegheny County executive. “I’m extremely proud that the airport is utilizing nearly 10,000 solar panels as a source
