Wind of change - LJLA becomes first UK Airport to use wind turbines

Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) believes it is the first commercial airport in the UK to install and operate wind turbines as it explores ways in which to minimize the impact of the Airport Company’s operations.

Two 15m high 6kW turbines manufactured by UK specialist company Proven Energy have been installed either side of the main approach road providing a dramatic gateway and clearly visible to all Airport users. Each turbine can generate sufficient electricity to power a standard 4-6 bedroom house and contributes towards the Airport’s electricity needs.

Liverpool is believed to be the first Airport in the UK to install wind turbines, with the scheme initially being run as a trial to better understand the effect of turbines of this size, on sensitive air traffic control equipment. If successful, the Airport hopes to install more turbines to increase levels of sustainable power generation as part of the Airport’s commitment to look at ways to minimise its impact on the environment.

This is the second time that LJLA has implemented pioneering environmental initiatives, having been the first UK Airport to introduce its own carbon offsetting initiative known as ‘Last Call!’ 18 months ago. This scheme gives passengers the opportunity to donate money towards planting trees to offset the carbon emissions of their flight. All money donated is matched by the Airport Company and given to the Mersey Forest to plant trees in local community areas to help improve the local environment and help reduce climate change at the same time.

Andrew Dutton LJLA’s Environment Manager, said: “The Airport will continually look at ways to minimise the environmental impact of operating a growing regional airport. The wind turbines will potentially, along with other renewable energy sources, play an important part in the airport’s future development. This trial will hopefully demonstrate that turbines can be sited at an operational airport and that others can follow suit. These small yet extremely efficient turbines are proving that wind turbines at airports can make an important contribution to sustainable energy supply.”