Fiji Airports breaks ground on Fiji's largest airport solar farm at Nadi International Airport

Fiji Airports has officially broken ground on a 3.25-megawatt Solar Farm at Nadi International Airport, marking a major milestone in its commitment to renewable energy, energy security, operational resilience, and sustainable airport operations.

Nadi International Airport currently consumes around 2.5 megawatts of electricity. The new 3.25-megawatt Solar Farm will generate sufficient renewable energy to meet current airport demand, with approximately 25 per cent additional capacity available during peak generation to support future landside developments.

The Solar Farm is also scalable to 8-10 megawatts, providing Fiji Airports with the flexibility to support future airport expansion, increased energy demand, and additional landside developments at Nadi International Airport.

The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, who described the project as a significant investment in Fiji's future and a demonstration of the country's commitment to sustainable development.

"This project is an investment in resilience, energy security and the long-term sustainability of one of Fiji's most important national assets," Mr Gavoka said.
"Most importantly, it is an investment in Fiji's future.

"Today's groundbreaking reflects what can be achieved when government, industry and technical experts work together towards a shared vision. Through these partnerships, we are building stronger infrastructure and creating lasting benefits for Fiji."

The first phase of the Solar Farm will provide a significant source of renewable energy to support operations at Nadi International Airport, helping to reduce reliance on conventional electricity sources, strengthen energy security, lower operating costs, and reduce carbon emissions.

Once completed, it will become the largest airport solar power system in Fiji.

The project supports Fiji's Vision 2050 and aligns with national efforts to build a more sustainable, resilient, and globally competitive economy.

As Fiji's main international gateway, Nadi International Airport plays a vital role in connecting Fiji to the world, supporting tourism, facilitating trade and investment, and enabling the movement of people and goods across the Pacific and beyond.

Fiji Airports Chief Executive Officer Mesake Nawari said the project reflects the organisation's commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports both operational excellence and environmental sustainability.

"Nadi International Airport is Fiji's gateway to the world and one of the country's most important national assets," Mr Nawari said.

"As passenger numbers and operational demands continue to grow, so does our responsibility to ensure the infrastructure supporting our airport remains efficient, reliable, resilient, and sustainable.

"The Solar Farm is an investment in the future of Nadi International Airport and Fiji's aviation sector, delivering long-term benefits for our country and future generations.

"It strengthens our commitment to environmental stewardship while supporting more efficient airport operations and reducing our carbon footprint.

"The project not only supports current airport operations but also provides additional capacity to support future landside developments and the continued growth of Nadi International Airport.

"It demonstrates how sustainability and infrastructure investment can work together to support the long-term growth and resilience of Fiji's aviation sector."

Designed with aviation safety as a priority, the project has undergone detailed technical assessments to ensure it can operate safely and effectively within the airport environment.

The Solar Farm also forms part of Fiji Airports' broader renewable energy strategy, with future plans to expand solar generation and battery storage capacity across its operations.

Mr Gavoka acknowledged Fiji Airports' Board, management, and staff for their leadership in advancing the initiative and thanked project partners, including ITP Renewables, CBS Power Solutions, Design Engineering, Energy Fiji Limited, and other stakeholders whose expertise and collaboration have helped bring the project to fruition.

Major construction works on the Solar Farm are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Construction has now commenced, with the Solar Farm representing another significant investment in the future of Nadi International Airport and Fiji Airports' commitment to building safe, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure for generations to come.

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