Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport is earning accolades for its $6 million solar array project. This initiative, nearly a decade in the making, not only marks a significant step toward sustainability but also establishes the Springfield airport as a leader in renewable energy within the aviation industry.

Capitol Airport Executive Director Mark Hanna said the 2.88-megawatt solar array, located on the airport’s north side, now powers three key facilities: the airport’s public safety building, which houses fire, police, and operations; the FAA’s Flight Standards District Office; and StandardAero. “This solar array is meeting nearly 100% of the electrical needs for these facilities on an annual basis,” Hanna said.

The airport collaborated with Veregy, a decarbonization company specializing in renewable energy transitions, to bring the project to life.

Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport solar array

Recognition and Awards

The solar project has earned multiple awards and received industry recognition, including:

  • 2024 Airports Going Green Award – Recognized in the Outstanding Sustainability Infrastructure Development category, surpassing larger airports like Atlanta, Philadelphia, and JFK.
  • Illinois Public Airports Association Sustainability Award – The first-ever sustainability award from the state’s airport association.
  • AAAE Great Lakes Airfield Project of the Year Award – Honored by the Great Lakes Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives for contributions to airfield modernization.

The project has also been featured in Airport Improvement and Airport Business magazines.

Collaboration and Costs

The airport partnered with Veregy, engineers at CMT and Hanson Professional Services, and City Water, Light & Power on the project. These collaborations, Hanna said, were crucial for constructing the array and integrating it into Springfield’s energy grid.

The project’s $6 million cost was offset by renewable energy credits through the State of Illinois and federal investment tax credits, leaving the airport to finance $2.5 million. Hanna noted the project is already generating revenue by selling power to StandardAero at competitive rates and is expected to cash flow out in six to seven years.

The life of the solar panels is anticipated to be about 25 years and could produce to 30 years, with some degradation, according to Hanna.

Veregy estimates the airport will save $14.1 million in energy costs over the next 30 years and reduce electricity use for the airport and its three tenants by more than 90% each.

Looking Ahead: Phase Two

In 2025, the airport plans to launch a second phase of the solar project. According to Hanna, the expansion will ensure “every single significant meter that the airport authority writes a check for will be backed up with a sustainable solar energy source.” Once completed, the airport will be one of only a handful in the country to achieve near-total sustainability.

“We’re not just building for today,” Hanna said. “We’re positioning ourselves to support future electric aviation power plants and the next generation of aircraft.” He pointed out that some airlines are already ordering electric aircraft with a 250-mile range, making Springfield’s proximity to Chicago a strategic advantage.

New Dining Options for Travelers

In addition to its sustainability efforts, the airport is improving the traveler experience with new dining options through a partnership with Ion, based in Champaign. A 10-year lease arrangement includes space for pre-and post-security cafes, Sky Club Lounges and vending machine operations.

The partnership includes a long-term lease arrangement spanning up to ten years, providing stability and fostering growth for both ION and the airport. Additionally, the plan encompasses the leasehold transfer of key facilities, including space for pre- and post-security cafes, Sky Club Lounges, and vending machine operations. ION also plans to introduce full-service catering and grab-and-go options to further enhance passenger convenience, in collaboration with Stellar Aviation Group, the airport’s fixed base operations division.

A cafe operated by Champaign-based Ion will also offer grab-and-go items as well as local favorites from Turasky Meats, Del’s Popcorn and Pease’s Candy.

“It’s an exciting time,” Hanna said. “We’re not only achieving significant milestones in sustainability but also providing new amenities for our travelers to enjoy.”