JFK Airport to Host New York's Largest Solar Carport and Battery Storage System

Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced the groundbreaking for New York State’s largest solar carport and battery storage system at John F. Kennedy International Airport. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in collaboration with the New York Power Authority, aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support clean energy initiatives in the surrounding community.

The 12-megawatt solar carport will be constructed in JFK's long-term parking lot 9, offering covered parking for 3,000 vehicles. This innovative structure will generate electricity to power the AirTrain and contribute to the energy needs of the airport. Additionally, the carport will house a 6-megawatt community solar generation facility, providing discounted clean energy to nearby low-income communities.

The project is designed to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 6,000 metric tons annually, supporting the Port Authority's goal of achieving net-zero emissions across its facilities by 2050. TotalEnergies, a leading global solar power developer, will build, own, and operate the solar carport project, which is expected to be completed in two phases. The first phase will deliver energy to the airport by March 2025, while the second phase will provide energy to the surrounding community by April 2026.

Rick Cotton, the Executive Director of the Port Authority, noted that this project is a crucial step toward the organization's goal of reducing its carbon footprint. The solar carport will also align with the Governor's climate agenda, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.