FAA Bringing Solar Energy to Oklahoma City Center

The FAA is undertaking its largest solar project yet with the installation of enough panels at its Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to produce 2,600 megawatt hours annually.

Anticipated to reduce the FAA center’s bill by an estimated $170,000 to $200,000 per year, the solar farm will produce enough energy to power about 260 average homes, the agency said. “This project captures the area’s abundant sunshine, will save valuable taxpayer dollars, and will help build a more sustainable aviation system," said acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen.

The project is among several at the FAA’s Oklahoma City campus, the agency said, noting that 16 of its 24 certified sustainable buildings are located there.

In addition, the center has participated in two pilot programs involving electric vehicle charging stations, and it is collaborating with local university students on a study on means to better track energy use and reporting.

Along with Oklahoma City, the FAA has installed a 1,600-panel solar farm next to its Tucson, Arizona air traffic control tower.