/BUCHAREST, ROMANIA, September 8, 2025, 11:45 CET, RENEWABLE MARKET WATCH™/ Cluj-Napoca Airport will build a photovoltaic park and energy storage capacities with non-reimbursable funding from the Modernisation Fund for energy efficiency in the transport sector. The primary goal of the project is to generate electricity by utilising the renewable energy source of solar power. To achieve this, Cluj Airport plans to install more than 7,500 solar photovoltaic panels across an area of 8 hectares.
This installation will have a total installed capacity of 5 megawatts (MW), making it a substantial contributor to the airport’s energy needs. In addition to the generation capability, the project also includes a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with a capacity of 12 megawatt-hours (MWh). This storage will enable the airport to effectively manage its energy supply, ensuring that electricity generated during sunny periods can be stored and used during times of higher demand or reduced solar generation. Overall, the initiative aims to enhance the airport’s sustainability by tapping into clean energy sources and reducing its carbon footprint.
Following the project’s implementation, Cluj Airport will achieve a significant milestone by sourcing over 60% of its electricity consumption from its own green energy production initiatives. This transition not only promotes environmental sustainability but is also poised to result in substantial budgetary savings, amounting to approximately 1 million euros each year. Additionally, this shift is expected to contribute to a meaningful reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, with an estimated annual decrease of around 3,400 tons of CO₂.
The overall investment in this ambitious project exceeds EUR 10,684,761 (RON 54 million), including VAT. Of this total, more than EUR 5,912,469 (RON 30 million) will be financed through non-reimbursable European funds, underscoring the importance of European support in advancing such eco-friendly initiatives. This project not only emphasises the airport’s commitment to sustainable practices but also showcases the potential for financial savings that accompany the adoption of renewable energy solutions.
Alin Tișe, President, Cluj County Council: “In the context of rising energy prices and budgetary constraints, energy independence is one of the major objectives we are focusing on. The investment in a photovoltaic park at Cluj Airport, from non-reimbursable funds, is a notable achievement and creates the premises for financial stability and achieving energy independence. We support this airport project, especially since Romania is part of the agreement to achieve climate neutrality.”
David Ciceo, General Manager, Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport: “The implementation of the project will increase the airport’s energy autonomy. We will invest in electricity production capacities from renewable sources, in energy storage systems dedicated exclusively to self-consumption, and in the installation of heat pumps. Our goal is to reduce energy consumption from conventional sources, reduce CO₂ emissions, and reach energy autonomy.”
Viorel Federiga, Chairman of the Board of Directors: “We are particularly pleased that we have managed to obtain financing for investments in projects such as the construction of a photovoltaic park at Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport. It is an important step in the process of adapting to new international requirements. The photovoltaic park will allow the airport to cover a significant part of its own energy consumption and will ensure a significant reduction in costs.”
In its efforts to reduce carbon emissions, Cluj International Airport has supplemented its fleet with an additional electric bus for transporting passengers to and from aircraft. It has a transport capacity of 110 passengers, features a battery that provides over 300 km of autonomy, is equipped with audio-video surveillance systems, and boasts a modern and ergonomic design, ensuring increased passenger comfort. The new equipment costs EUR 830,625 (RON 4.2 million). The investments made for the construction of the solar photovoltaic power plant and the acquisition of electrical equipment are part of the transition process towards a green and sustainable airport.
For more information and answers to your questions about the Romanian solar and energy storage market and related content, you may read here: Romania Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Market Outlook 2025 – 2034
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Image credit: Cluj-Napoca Airport
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