Rome Fiumicino Airport (ADR), Italy, has set a new milestone in sustainable energy with the launch of the largest self-consumption solar farm at a European airport and one of the largest worldwide. This groundbreaking initiative underscores ADR’s commitment to green transition, significantly reducing its carbon footprint while ensuring energy independence.
The Rome Fiumicino Solar Farm: Key Figures

Image: El Periódico de la Energía
Strategically located on the eastern side of Runway 3, the solar farm has an initial capacity of 22 MWp, projected to expand to 60 MWp within five years. Equipped with 55,000 monocrystalline silicon solar panels, the facility stretches over 2.5 kilometers, generating over 30 million kWh of electricity annually.
This output is equivalent to powering 30,000 households in Italy, highlighting its substantial positive impact on both the airport and the local community.
An Investment in Sustainability

Image: Aerolatin News
The solar farm, designed by ADR and executed by Enel in partnership with Circet, involved an initial investment of €50 million. It forms part of a broader energy sustainability plan backed by a total budget exceeding €200 million.
ADR’s strategy is clear: to lead the energy transition in the airport sector. As Marco Troncone, CEO of Rome Fiumicino Airport, states:
“The new solar farm reinforces our commitment to ecological transition and decarbonization, ensuring energy independence and significantly reducing our environmental impact. This sustainable development model is crucial for the growth of the airport, the region, and the country.”
Advantages for the Aviation Sector
The aviation industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact. With this solar farm, Rome Fiumicino Airport sets a precedent for other European airports and demonstrates how renewable energy can be integrated into complex operations.
Key benefits include:
- Energy Independence: Generating its own electricity reduces reliance on the national grid.
- Carbon Emission Reduction: Solar energy significantly contributes to decarbonizing the sector.
- Operational Efficiency: A project of this scale strengthens sustainability without compromising airport functionality.
A Blueprint for the Future

Image: Bolsamania
Rome Fiumicino Airport’s solar farm serves as a model for the aviation industry and beyond. With a forward-looking approach, ADR positions itself as a leader in the shift towards a greener future, proving that renewable energy can be a driving force for economic and environmental progress.
By tangibly reducing emissions and securing energy supply, this project highlights the importance of integrating innovative solutions into the aviation sector.
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