Airports of Thailand, or AOT, has launched an ambitious 20-year roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions at its six major airports, targeting 2045, two decades ahead of Thailand’s national goal.
The comprehensive strategy focuses on three key pillars: renewable energy, electric vehicle (EV) integration, and green building standards. This move is aimed at positioning Thailand as a leader in sustainable aviation within the region.
The plan aims to transform the nation’s aviation infrastructure and will propel Thailand’s competitiveness as a regional aviation hub.
Solar power leads energy transition:
AOT’s renewable energy initiative is already in motion, with Suvarnabhumi Airport’s partnership with District Cooling and Power Plant Company Limited (DCAP) delivering a 4.4-megawatt rooftop solar system since August 2023.
Expansion planned for 2026 will add over 33 megawatts of solar capacity from installations on building rooftops and water reservoirs. This will bring the total solar output to nearly 38 megawatts.
This project is projected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 555,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent over its 20-year lifespan, while simultaneously reducing energy costs by up to 20%. Following the success at Suvarnabhumi, similar solar installations are being planned for AOT’s other five airports.
EVs and green infrastructure:
To support the transition to clean transportation, starting January 2025, AOT has mandated that all company and operator vehicles entering the airports must be electric. To facilitate this, the authority has installed 36 new DC fast-charging stations with capacities up to 360 kW.
AOT is also applying green building standards to all new construction projects. For example, AOT’s Head Office Building 2 has already earned LEED Gold certification, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to sustainable design and construction.
Furthermore, AOT is preparing infrastructure for the future of aviation by planning for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) distribution. Recognizing the increasing global importance of non-tariff barriers related to environmental performance, AOT believes that providing an adequate supply of SAF will be vital for meeting airline demand and sustaining Thailand’s position in global aviation.
