Lightweight solar for airports

Energising the airport roofs other solar can’t reach

airports solar solutions

Stringent safety methods, glint and glare issues and disruption to day to day business are all serious considerations when installing solar at airports.

Solivus’ lightweight solar technologies combined with our industry experience are now opening up huge opportunities for airports to take control of their energy.

  • Ultra-lightweight system designed for weight-restricted roofs
  • No structural strengthening required in most cases
  • Rapid installation with minimal airside disruption
  • Fully compliant with aviation safety & operational standards

CLIENTS & ACCREDITATIONS

We work with some of the world’s largest companies, helping them achieve this with our innovative lightweight solar solutions.

What they say

Rooftop solar seemed like the solution however, the weight of it [conventional solar panels] and the iconic curves on our infrastructure meant that it was a real challenge. Fortunately, Solivus had the answer.

ROB MARSDEN

CFO Farnborough Airport

Solivus provided a complete solution. From engineering design right through to turning the system on. A really seamless installation that will save us hundreds of thousands of pounds over the coming years.

RAY PAYNE

CEO Northamptonshire Country Cricket Club

In line with our ambition to become a sustainability showcase for airports around the world, we’re proud to have partnered with lightweight solar technology pioneers, Solivus, to install one of the largest rooftop solar projects in the region.

SIMON GEERE

CEO Farnborough Airport

We were impressed by Solivus and their innovative, lightweight systems, which can be fitted to the roof of our warehouse; space we previously thought was unusable. With Astute’s focus on energy independence and net zero focus, we’re looking forward to reaping both environmental and sustainability benefits over the next five years and beyond.

MARK SHANLEY

Sales & Marketing Director at Astute Electronics

There are 1,000s of buildings with roof space like ours that you can't use for any other purpose. This gives us commercial benefit, as well as reducing our carbon footprint so it’s worth considering.

JULIA CHAPMAN

CEO at Northampton Saints

It’s [modular cabin lightweight solar and battery system] been a success. As you can see, it’s powering the whole building and the [diesel] generator has hardly been in use. It’s something we’re looking forward to rolling out to future projects.

MATT COOPER

Modular Accommodation Manager Balfour Beatty

WHY AIRPORTS TRADITIONALLY STRUGGLE WITH SOLAR

  • Roof load limits rule out conventional solar
  • Structural reinforcement is costly and disruptive
  • Terminal operations can’t be interrupted
  • Safety, glare, and compliance requirements are non-negotiable

As a result, many airport solar projects never get past feasibility.

SOLAR SYSTEMS DESIGNED FOR AVIATION

  • Up to 70% lighter than traditional panels
  • Compatible with terminals, hangars, and logistics buildings
  • Can be installed without drilling or major structural works
  • Engineered to meet aviation safety and glare requirements
  • Designed to integrate with phased or night-time installation

CASE STUDY FARNBOROUGH AIRPORT

Iconic curved hangars and lightweight aluminium seemed roofs make Farnborough Airport an architectural marvel.

However, when Farnborough looked for solutions to cut carbon and energy they were told that solar panels weren’t a viable option due to weight restrictions and fixing methods.  

Fortunately Solivus had the solution

  • 4,000 lightweight panels providing 25% of the airports annual energy demand.
  • Low glint and glare from panels, essential for air traffic.
  • Designed to be aesthetically sympathetic to the iconic airport architecture.
  • No penetration of roofs needed during installation.
  • Stringent, airport health and safety procedures adhered to during installation.
  • No disruption to airport operations during installation.
Read case study
Read case study

FAQ's

Will this disrupt airport operations?

No - installs are phased for minimal disruption.

Is it safe and glare-friendly?

Yes - we check compliance with aviation rules.

Do I need roof reinforcement?

Usually not - we’ll check early so there are no surprises.

Works on older terminals?

Yes - lightweight is actually perfect for legacy buildings.

Enquiry

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