PIT Becomes First Airport to Power Itself with Natural Gas, Solar

Pittsburgh International Airport and its surrounding campus is now the first airport in the world powered by solar energy and natural gas generated right on site.

Airport officials joined by federal, state and county leaders cut the ribbon Wednesday in front of 9,360 solar panels glistening in the sun, part of a microgrid more than two years in the making.

The first-of-its kind power grid increases resilience and maximizes public safety, making PIT one of the most resilient airports in the world.

“Not even a pandemic could stop this innovation,” said Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis. “PIT is now one of the most site-hardened public facilities in the world while at the same time becoming more sustainable. That’s a tribute to the innovative culture of our team, and we hope this project can be a model across the industry.”

Airports across the country have