Bordeaux Airport is actively committed to reducing its environmental impact at all levels as part of its transition towards a comprehensive ecological approach. Among its initiatives, outdoor lighting is of particular importance. For the renovation of its parking lots, the airport’s technical management chose solar lighting, specifically the local solutions from Sunna Design. The EverGen range from Sunna Design, designed specifically for high-power lighting projects, perfectly embodies this innovative approach with its performance and versatility. This case study illustrates how the choice of innovative and eco-friendly technological solutions can contribute to the ecological transition of airport infrastructure.
Bordeaux – FRANCE
The Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport stands as a major player in the transition towards more environmentally friendly aviation. Driven by an ambitious vision, the airport has embarked on a comprehensive eco-responsibility approach, distinguishing itself with substantial initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable resource management.
A key element of this dynamic is the International Airport Carbon Accreditation program. By joining in 2019, the airport affirmed its commitment to evaluate and reduce its CO2 emissions systematically. Achieving the Optimization level of ACA in early 2024 attests to the significant progress made in reducing CO2 emissions and engaging airport site stakeholders.
In parallel, the airport announced an ambitious investment of 20 million euros dedicated to decarbonization and energy-saving projects by 2027. Among the initiatives are the creation of a photovoltaic canopy to cover parking lot P4 and the introduction of solar-powered LED lighting in the parking lots.
All these measures demonstrate Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport’s determination to be at the forefront of eco-responsibility. They illustrate its commitment to responsible energy management and environmental protection while ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for passengers and staff.
In line with this strong commitment, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport collaborated with Sunna Design to optimize its outdoor lighting system. This approach perfectly illustrates their shared desire to combine safety, comfort, and sustainability. Among the range of solar solutions offered by Sunna Design, the EverGen range, dedicated to large high-power lighting projects, was specifically chosen to meet the airport’s unique challenges. This choice highlights EverGen’s ability to provide unmatched performance and reliability, which is essential for a large-scale site like the airport. These autonomous solar lighting solutions harmoniously integrate with the airport’s eco-responsibility framework, marking a significant step towards a greener future.
As part of this project, the airport installed a dozen lampposts in parking lot P3, some of which feature innovative hybrid technology, switching from solar to grid power according to conditions and needs. This solution ensures continuous service every night of the year. For example, during periods of low solar irradiation, the system automatically switches to grid power, ensuring constant and reliable lighting, essential for airport safety zones. The three 100% autonomous solar lampposts are strategically placed in the heart of the parking lot and operate exclusively on solar energy. Their complete autonomy contributes to optimal energy resource use.
Another technology used to reduce the project’s energy impact is the integration of communicative detection. This technology allows lampposts to intelligently react to their environment. Equipped with sensors, they detect movement and communicate this information to neighboring lampposts. In response, a group of lampposts illuminates simultaneously, offering adaptive and responsive lighting to passenger or vehicle movements. This functionality not only optimizes energy use but also enhances security by ensuring targeted and effective lighting where and when needed.
This lighting system, combining solar autonomy, hybridization, and communicative intelligence, demonstrates Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport’s innovative and responsible approach. It embodies a balance between environmental respect, energy cost reduction, and ensuring a secure environment for all airport users. Sunna Design’s EverGen solution proves to be a strategic choice. With all these options, it is a flexible range, suitable for sites requiring flawless reliability throughout the year.
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport’s choice to adopt Sunna Design’s solar lighting solutions demonstrates the significant impact that local commitment can have on global environmental goals. As a dynamic hub, the airport positions itself as a pioneer in ecological practices in aviation, thus promoting eco-responsibility within the airport community and among travelers.
Beyond its environmental benefits, this project also brings local social and economic advantages. The manufacture and installation of Sunna Design’s lampposts mobilized local skills and resources, stimulating the regional economy and strengthening the bond between the airport and the community.
In the end, this initiative highlights the potential for airports to reduce energy consumption while maintaining high standards of safety and comfort for users. As a major player in the airport sector, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport shows the way to reconcile operational performance and environmental responsibility.
2023
EverGen