BIA to get solar power and other essential infrastructure facilities
By: Staff Writer
Colombo (LNW): Going ahead with the sustainable development goals, the Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Private Limited (AASL) has taken steps to enhance the renewable energy share to meet the growing challenges before the power and energy sectors.
Accordingly, the AASL commissioned its next solar photovoltaic project, a 100 kWp plant on the rooftop of the passenger terminal building at the BIA, by investing Rs. 19 million.
It is estimated that the daily power generation of 600 kWh energy units, or 18,000 kWh energy units per month, would be sufficient to power 200 ordinary houses in Sri Lanka.
One of the most important features of this solar project is that the entire design, planning and installation were done with the in-house expertise of the AASL. The payback period for the project will be about 20 months.
Currently, AASL has installed a 210 kWp solar PV plant, including a new addition, and next year it is planned to add another 1,800 kWp capacity to the system.
The BIA is one of the largest electricity consumers in Sri Lanka, and by the end of 2024, it is planned to increase the renewable energy share of BIA to 10% of the total energy unit consumption.
Several essential projects for the modernization and expansion of Katunayake Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) were carried out yesterday (20) presided over by Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva and some other Ministers.
Among these projects were, the opening of the Friendship Road in front of the BIA, a new access road to the Airport Arrivals Terminal.
A new parking lot for departing passengers, the establishment of a new air traffic management system, a new solar power system for airport electricity needs, ‘Magster’ online system for passengers and visitors entering the airport and inspection of the new automated Immigration gate system were carried out.
For these projects, the funds of the Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka Limited were invested, in addition to the support provided by Sri Lanka Investment Board, Road Development Authority, Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation, Katana Pradeshiya Sabha and Katunayake-Seeduwa Municipal Council and many other private institutions.
Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said that by adding these new features to Katunayake Airport, this airport is becoming one of the most efficient airports in South Asia.
