Bellingham International Airport is the latest Port transportation terminal to feature a signature clean energy project with the installation of a high efficiency, 250-panel solar array. This large solar project will significantly reduce Bellingham International Airport’s energy costs and mark another step forward in the Port’s Climate Action Strategy to enhance environmental, economic and community health for future generations.
The new solar panels are expected to generate 100,000 kilowatt hours annually, providing clean, renewable energy to support airport operations. In addition to reducing carbon emissions, the solar array will lower the airport’s monthly electricity bills and reduce operating costs. The Port hopes to utilize federal incentives to pay for 30% of the cost of the system.
“Solar power is a sustainable energy solution that thrives even in Whatcom County’s rainy climate,” said Port Commissioner Michael Shepard. “Hundreds of thousands of people pass through Bellingham International Airport each year and this new solar array will help showcase our community’s commitment to a greener future.”
Information about the solar array will be included on new solar powered phone charging stations to be added near airline departure gates in the coming months as part of the overall project.
“Our community has high environmental standards and it’s important to communicate the Port’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency and how we are making difference,” said Port Sustainability Program Manager Adrienne Douglass-Scott. “With this rooftop installation of solar panels, Bellingham International Airport is setting a precedent for airports across the nation.”
The solar installation is part of the Port’s Climate Action Strategy with the goal to reduce Port-controlled greenhouse gas emissions by at least 90% from 2019 levels by 2030 and 100% from 2019 levels by 2050.
The Port continues to look for solar installation opportunities and performed numerous feasibility studies in 2024 for solar installations throughout Port property. In 2021, the Port installed 336 solar panels on the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, the largest solar array on any public building in Whatcom County.
With long, sunny summer days in Whatcom County, solar energy is viable renewable energy alternative. The Pacific Northwest receives more solar energy than Germany, the leading global user of solar.
The solar installation at Bellingham International Airport is one of many green building sustainability features including highly efficient heating and lighting, waste compacters, water conservation systems, and electric vehicle charging stations.
The solar panel system at Bellingham International Airport was designed and installed by Ecotech Solar, Whatcom County’s first locally owned and operated solar contractor.