Newcastle Airport has signed a new energy purchase agreement with leading Australian renewable energy retailer, Flow Power.
Under the agreement, Flow Power will prepare an energy plan that will see the airport achieve its target of 100 per cent renewable energy seven years ahead of schedule, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and supporting the airport’s sustainability efforts.
Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock said the agreement is a major step forward in the airport’s sustainability journey and demonstrates a commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
“Newcastle Airport is expanding to deliver growth to the Hunter region, and sustainability is key to everything we do,” Peter said.
“We’re delighted to partner with Flow Power. By offsetting grid consumption with green generation certificates, they’ll help us significantly reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and help us achieve our 100 per cent renewable energy strategy well ahead of our 2030 target.”
Executive General Manager of Aviation, Shane de Wit said the engagement with Flow Power would help make Newcastle Airport a leader in making the transition to a low carbon economy.
“Flow Power’s flexibility and efforts have empowered the airport to become a leader in environmental sustainability, both in the aviation industry and in the Hunter Region,” Shane said.
“We have a commitment to achieving net zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions by no later than 2030, and our partnership with Flow Power will support us in achieving these sustainability goals.
“The new agreement provides us with the ability to develop local renewable energy and offset any remaining demand with green generation certificates from off-site renewable energy sources, including exploring future renewable wind projects when they become available.”
Shane said Newcastle Airport has already implemented several key initiatives.
“In 2021, 99kWh solar was installed at the airport producing 3.9 per cent of electricity and reducing our carbon footprint by more than 75 tonnes.
“Our expanded terminal is being designed with a 5-Star Green Star rating, and our new Covered Car Park will feature 1,212 solar panels, powering more than 30 per cent of the airport.
“Sustainability is also being incorporated into Astra Aerolab’s built environment. Our first commercial office building has been designed with a successful 5-star Green Building rating assessment from Green Building Council Australia.
“We’re committed to continuous improvement and will continue to explore opportunities to reduce our environmental impact and support the transition to a low-carbon future.”
Flow Power General Manager of Energy Solutions, Jacob Mahoney said he is excited to be partnering with Newcastle Airport and assisting them in their transition to renewable energy.
“Our mission is to create a clean energy future with our customers, and we are thrilled to be working with Newcastle Airport and supporting them to reach their sustainability goals.
“Renewable energy is an important part of the solution to the climate crisis, and we are committed to helping businesses transition to clean, renewable electricity while future-proofing their energy needs in a rapidly changing market.”
The energy plan took effect on 1 January 2023 and will support the airport’s operations for the next eight years.
IMAGE | From left to right: Georgina Chalker – Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager People Safety and Environment, Shane de Wit – Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager Aviation, Peter Cock – Newcastle Airport CEO
