The photovoltaics at the airport, not installed on the roof?

In a bold move that blends sustainability, innovation, and aviation safety, Germany's Nuremberg Airport has launched construction on a state-of-the-art photovoltaic (PV) perimeter fence, set to be one of the most unique solar energy projects in the country. The symbolic groundbreaking ceremony took place last Friday, marking the start of a visionary initiative to power the airport with clean, renewable energy.

✈️ Turning Fences into Power Plants

Stretching across 1.7 kilometers in length and 60 meters in width, the PV fence system will feature approximately 23,000 solar panels arranged in an east-west orientation. This design ensures extended power production throughout the day while minimizing glare risks for pilots during landings—a triple win for energy, aesthetics, and safety.

The system will boast a maximum capacity of 13.4 MW, capable of producing an estimated 13.4 GWh of electricity annually, all of which will be fed directly into the airport’s internal power grid.