FAA Solar Lighting Project

The Federal Aviation Administration is succeeding where Icarus and Daedalus failed by benefiting from the power of the sun to lower its energy expenses and reduce its usage of fossil fuels. The FAA is installing solar arrays to provide energy to runways, control towers and other aviation facilities across the country as part of its mission to rely on sustainable energy for its operations.  Penn Yan Airport is a leader assisting the FAA in this endeavor.

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Major airports generally have airfield lighting powered by expensive, centralized electrical systems, while many smaller GA airports only have non-illuminated signs, markings, windsocks, and other pilot aids. Can solar-powered lighting and signs along runways and taxiways improve airfield visibility at smaller and general aviation airports?

 

The FAA used solar panels and battery supplies at Penn Yan Airport in New York on 23 lighting safety systems — including runway and taxiway edge lights, obstruction lights, elevated runway guard lights, windsocks, and signs.  

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Part one of this program ended in 2025.  The FAA will be back in Penn Yan in the next few years to continue studies to update lighting systems as well as provide safe lighting options with clean, efficient Solar Power.  Penn Yan continues to support our friends at the FAA in this endeavor.