Business travellers using Bristol Airport will see development work taking place on the airfield creating Bristol Airport's solar farm.

A 2.8 acre solar farm is being constructed on the airfield and preparation work is already underway, with the project starting this month and forecast to be completed by summer 2023.

The solar panels (combined with the existing roof mounted panels at the administration building and the car rental consolidation site) will be expected to increase the renewable energy generated on site to at least 16% of the Airport's direct energy needs over the year. All power generated is planned to be consumed by the airport.

Hannah Pollard, the airport's head of sustainability, said: "We are delighted to see this exciting project take shape, creating our first onsite solar farm. This is a huge first step in exploring renewable energy that will be consumed on site. This project highlights our commitment to making continual improvements now and in the future."

The project is being carried out by 3ti, the UK's leading designer, installer, funder and operator of solar car parks.

Richard Lees, Delivery Director, said: "We are delighted to be designing, installing and delivering this solar ground mount project for Bristol Airport and look forward to supporting their sustainable initiatives. This important project highlights the commitment of Bristol Airport in pursuing renewable energy sources."

Bristol Airport stated that the development is a major component in helping to deliver the airport's ambitions to be net zero for its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, with the solar panels being essential for the airport to meet its target of having 25% of its energy use generated by its own renewable sources by the end of 2025.

Meanwhile Bristol Airport is continuing to enhance its terminal building, parking and public transport links as part of an investment which it claimed will help create 800 jobs and boost the South West economy by an estimated £430m.

A new Caffè Nero store recently opened in the main terminal following an investment of more than £500,000, while two new executive lounges, 'Escape' and '1903', set to open in the mezzanine floor of the departure terminal this summer.

CAVU, founded by Manchester Airports Group, said it is looking to deliver a "premium pre-flight experience" in the facilities, which will include a selection of complimentary food and drink and dedicated space and services.

In June 2022, Bristol Airport was named as the best in Euorpe for eco initiatives, sharing the award from Airport Carbon Accreditation jointly with Istanbul.