Copenhagen Airport Pioneers Green Energy Storage with Large Battery Installation

Copenhagen Airport installs a large battery for green energy storage, marking a significant step towards sustainable operations and the goal of net-zero emissions.

Copenhagen Airport has taken a bold step towards sustainability by installing one of Europe's first large batteries for storing green energy within an airport's critical infrastructure. This move is part of the EU-funded ALIGHT project, aiming to significantly reduce emissions and push towards net-zero operations by harnessing solar and wind energy more efficiently.

Despite the challenges associated with integrating a battery system into the airport's critical infrastructure, the project partners have successfully mitigated security risks, paving the way for the battery to soon become operational. "This installation is a crucial stride towards more sustainable airport operations. We're now focusing on testing various energy storage solutions to further expand our efforts," stated Maria Skotte, Copenhagen Airport’s Vice President of Sustainability.

Addressing potential risks, including fire hazards, data breaches, and legal complications, the collaborative effort between Copenhagen Airport, the Danish Technological Institute, and Hybrid Greentech has been instrumental. The Danish Technological Institute contributed to defining the battery system specifications and conducting safety tests. "We're thrilled about the successful installation and upcoming activation of the battery at Copenhagen Airport," said Lars Overgaard, Project Manager at the Institute.

Hybrid Greentech developed the energy management system to operate the battery, undergoing rigorous testing for functionality and reliability. This management system will allow Copenhagen Airport to optimize the storage and use of energy generated from the airport's solar panels and green power from the grid, enhancing CO2 reductions and contributing to the stability of the overall energy system.

"With our sophisticated control system, the airport's battery will work in tandem with charging stations and other infrastructures, supporting the green transformation," remarked Christoffer Greisen, COO at Hybrid Greentech.

The ALIGHT project positions Copenhagen Airport as a leader in the movement towards a more sustainable aviation industry, exploring how electrification and renewable energy sources can integrate into future airport configurations. This initiative not only aims to reduce CO2 emissions and electricity costs but also sets a precedent for other European airports to follow.

The battery system, supplied by Xolta, boasts a capacity of 900 kW / 1,200 kWh and is located in Maglebylille, close to the airport's workshops and garage facilities. This strategic placement allows for the involvement of solar panels and charging stations in various system tests without disrupting the airport's daily operations.

The project's demonstration activities and experiments with the battery system will continue until the end of 2025, with findings and insights to be shared across the aviation industry. This pioneering effort underscores Copenhagen Airport's commitment to leading the charge in the aviation sector's transition to renewable energy and smart energy management solutions.