Kochi: Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has once again earned global recognition, winning an accolade at the Green Airports Recognition 2025 instituted by Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East. The award acknowledges CIAL’s innovative terrain-based solar power plant located at Payyannur in Kannur, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and green infrastructure.
CIAL received the award in the 6–15 million passengers per annum category, distinguishing itself as a pioneer in environmentally responsible airport operations across the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions. The ACI Green Airports Recognition programme celebrates exceptional environmental initiatives that contribute towards sustainable aviation infrastructure. The award was presented by ACI President S.G.K. Kishore to S. Suhas, Managing Director, CIAL, during a ceremony held in New Delhi. Also in attendance were CIAL Airport Director Manu G. and Stefano Baronci, Director General, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East.
Commissioned in 2022, the solar plant was established on a 35-acre site, introducing a terrain-based installation model that preserves the natural topography without altering the land gradient. This innovative approach enhances land utilisation by enabling closer spacing of solar module arrays, reducing land usage to 2.75 acres per MW compared to the conventional 3.75 acres per MW on flat land. The terrain-based system allows for a 35% increase in solar panel capacity, thereby significantly boosting energy generation. “CIAL, the world’s first airport fully powered by solar energy, remains steadfast in its mission to advance green energy solutions. As part of ongoing infrastructure expansion, we continue to upgrade our energy capacity to meet growing demands sustainably. Our total installed solar capacity currently stands at 50 MW,” said S. Suhas, Managing Director, CIAL. In its official commendation, ACI noted that CIAL’s submission was among the most distinguished projects of the year, standing out among several high-quality entries received in 2024.
