Energy

The Allegheny County Airport Authority (ACAA) is focused on positioning its airports and the Pittsburgh region as world leaders in energy innovation, building resiliency and efficiency, redefining what airports can be and supporting our community’s natural environment.

Our energy plan is a pathway to a cleaner, more capable future that not only promises significant benefits but also positions Pittsburgh as a center for economic development within the global aviation industry.

The comprehensive energy strategy underway at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) aims to attract global aviation and related industries, fostering opportunity for the Western Pennsylvania region. With existing infrastructure and resources, PIT is an ideal location for energy innovation. And like the Pittsburgh community we serve, we lead with innovation, developing real energy solutions to benefit and support our world.

PIT’s ambitious plans aim to mirror the region’s historical contributions to innovation, manufacturing, financial services and healthcare. This transformation promises more jobs and economic development, creating opportunities for the community to be part of the future of aviation and a greener economy. PIT’s energy initiative will also further establish the airport as one of the most resilient in the world.

Powering Progress

Microgrid
In July 2021, PIT became the first major airport in the world to be entirely powered by on-site natural gas and solar energy through a 23-watt microgrid, boosting resiliency and helping to shield the airport from power disruptions that have seriously affected other airports around the world. The microgrid is powered by five natural gas generators and nearly 10,000 solar panels across eight acres, and has garnered global industry attention, winning numerous awards as a model of resiliency and sustainability. PIT’s microgrid reduces carbon emissions and saves more than $1 million in utility costs each year.
Synthetic Aviation Fuel Production
A cornerstone of the ACAA’s energy innovation strategy is the development of on-site Synthetic Aviation Fuel (SAF) production facilities with outside partners. Producing SAF on-site will drive economic development for both the region and airport, while helping the aviation industry meet decarbonization goals. A SAF facility at PIT would become one of the first airports globally to produce SAF on-site, and the facility could supply airports across the U.S. Northeast and Midwest.
Hydrogen Production
The ACAA also aims to produce hydrogen on-site at PIT, working with multiple partners on a strategy that could revolutionize the aviation industry and beyond. On-site hydrogen production at PIT would also power ground vehicles, facilities and fuel cells, further reducing airport emissions.