California FBO/MRO Goes off the Grid

California-based FBO services and aircraft maintenance chain ACI Jet has completed the installation of a solar array at its facility at San Luis Obispo County Airport (KSBP).

Taking advantage of the state’s bountiful sunshine, the 900-panel array—which spans the roofs of the location’s aircraft maintenance and storage hangars—is capable of generating nearly 600 kilowatts of peak power for much of the year, enough to power the entire FBO, Part 145 repair station, and flight operations center at KSBP.

For ACI, the development represents a major milestone for Paradigm Positive, its ESG, sustainability, and innovation strategy.

“Alternative and renewable energy already supports many of our modernized aircraft ground support systems,” said Andrew Robillard, the company’s head of FBOs and facilities. “As the aviation industry moves toward increased electrification of aircraft, vehicles, and equipment, establishing a clean, reliable, and scalable energy source becomes not just beneficial, but essential.”

The improvement fits as part of a larger renewable energy effort at KSBP. The airport recently completed the installation of a 940-kilowatt solar system over its parking facilities, further reducing its reliance on conventional energy sources.