Mumbai Airport Launches First-of-its-Kind Vertical Axis Wind Turbine & Solar PV System

2022-06-18

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) is India’s first airport to launch a one-of-its-kind Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) & Solar PV hybrid (Solar Mill) to explore the possibility of utilization of wind energy at the airport. CSMIA has introduced this pilot program in collaboration with WindStream Energy Technologies India Pvt Ltd, which ensures 24/7 energy generation, harnessing maximum energy through wind power systems, while enabling highly efficient and low carbon future for aviation. This sustainable initiative undertaken by CSMIA reduces dependence on conventional electricity which propels its journey towards ‘Net Zero’ emissions.

Since its inception, CSMIA has been inching towards the reduction of carbon emissions under its Environment & Sustainability policy and GHG policy. Over the years, incredible efforts and strong beliefs in sustainable development have ensured minimal environmental footprint at the airport. Thus, to assist in enhancing capacity usage of green energy, CSMIA has deployed a 10Kwp Hybrid SolarMill consisting of 2 Kwp TurboMill (3 Savonious type VAWT) and 8 Kwp Solar PV modules with an estimated minimum energy generation of 36 Kwh/day. WindStream Energy Technologies India Pvt Ltd has developed this novel and patented, first-of-its-kind, fully integrated, hybrid renewable energy product which harnesses solar and wind energy combined to generate electricity. The energy generated through this technology can be customized on a need-specific basis. Due to its modular and scalable size, it’s easy to mount the technology on any mobile or static rooftop. This technology is a vital step in deploying a solution at the airport that is renewable, clean, green, environment-friendly, bird-friendly, and a silent solution with a 25-year design life.

It is estimated that VAWT technology will generate ~13140 KWh/annum for 25 years & will increase renewable energy in the existing energy mix and can reduce carbon emission to about 259515 KgCo2e (Kilogram of carbon dioxide equivalent per kilogram). This plant requires bare minimum maintenance of installation, unlike any other machines for electrical supply, where load & batteries are attached to the system.

CSMIA aims to replicate the project to increase the onsite renewal power generation in the coming years.