El Paso Airport to install solar panels

EL PASO, TX – The City of El Paso Airport was selected to receive a US$3 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the installation of solar panels, in addition to US$360,000 in support to develop an Airport Sustainability Master Plan.

“We are pleased that our community has once again been recognized by the federal government as a crucial part of the national aviation network. The city shares the national vision of a future that incorporates innovative and efficient energy practices and utilizes technology to achieve these goals, which are also part of our community’s priorities,” stated Mayor Oscar Leeser.

The El Paso Airport is one of 21 air terminals to receive a grant from the FAA, which, will be used to install solar panels at the Rental Car Center to effectively offset the airport’s energy consumption.

“The news is a testament to the vision and execution of the El Paso International Airport team and the city. I am pleased to see the continued commitment to sustainability at the airport, especially the additional funding for the installation of solar panels that will offset its energy use,” said Congresswoman Veronica Escobar.

The FAA has awarded a total of US$92 million to airports across the country as part of the federal government’s commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, a goal set by President Biden. The funding provided supports the airport’s ongoing efforts to modernize its infrastructure.

“Airport staff has been diligently planning for future projects, making sure we are ready to hit the ground running as soon as the federal government awards the grant,” said interim city manager Cary Westin.

The airport will work with the newly created Office of Climate and Sustainability to incorporate the Airport’s Sustainability Master Plan into the city’s overall Climate Action Plan.