On the recordAugust 2, 2022
Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Airport Energy Resiliency and Renewable Energy Act, which I introduced today. While some airports are already using renewable energy systems to enhance the energy efficiency of their power sources, our Nation's airports still have incredible opportunities to lower emissions and improve energy resiliency by further investing in renewable energy sources and energy storage solutions. For example, commercial solar panels are bigger and more efficient than residential ones and can generate substantially more power without presenting a threat to aviation operations. Furthermore, battery storage and microgrids would allow energy to be stored and used later during peak demand, when it is most needed. In the event of a power disruption or outage as a result of a natural disaster or other emergency, deploying solar generation coupled with battery storage would allow airports to power essential facilities using renewable resources instead of generators, which often run on fossil fuels. In concert with the resources being delivered by the bipartisan infrastructure law, providing new dedicated funding would help kickstart existing interest in reducing carbon footprint and improving the energy resiliency at airports. That is why I am proud to introduce this bill to create a new FAA grant program to help airports invest in renewable generation resources such as solar panels, battery storage systems, and microgrids.…





