As part of a larger project managed by Nabholz to develop a new airport terminal, the Texarkana Regional Airport Authority partnered with Entegrity to incorporate renewable energy into the facility’s infrastructure. The project includes a 528 kW-DC solar parking canopy system that generates clean electricity while providing covered parking for travelers—creating a dual-purpose solution that reduces operating costs and enhances the passenger experience.
OPPORTUNITY
When planning a new airport terminal, the Texarkana Regional Airport Authority wanted to incorporate infrastructure that would reduce long-term operating costs while enhancing the facility for travelers.
The team identified an opportunity to integrate solar energy into the parking area, allowing the airport to generate clean electricity on-site while creating covered parking that would improve the passenger experience and provide additional revenue opportunities.
SOLUTION
Entegrity designed and installed a 528 kW-DC solar parking canopy system consisting of four canopy structures located in the airport’s parking area.
The system was designed to offset a significant portion of the airport’s electricity use while delivering practical benefits for travelers through covered premium parking.
Financing for the project was secured through a combination of the 40% Federal Investment Tax Credit and the Arkansas Energy Office Revolving Loan Fund, which provided a low-interest financing option with a 15-year term.
IMPACT
When energized, the solar canopy system is projected to generate more than 727,000 kWh of clean electricity each year, offsetting approximately 69% of the airport’s total energy consumption.
The system is expected to produce approximately $114,000 in annual energy savings, helping reduce the airport’s operating costs.
In addition to energy savings, the new canopy parking created an opportunity to increase premium parking rates from $10 to $13 per day, generating additional non-aeronautical revenue while improving passenger comfort and convenience.
