Teesside International Airport reveals SSE solar farm agreement

A transport hub has revealed plans for a “landmark” power project.

Teesside International Airport has agreed a deal with SSE Energy Solutions to create a solar farm at the base.

Construction of the venture – which is earmarked to provide power for more than 17,000 homes – is expected to start early next year.

Airport leaders say it will be “one of the biggest solar projects of its size in the UK” and “likely mean the airport will be the first in the country to be carbon neutral.”

The plans follow recent confirmation a hydrogen refuelling station will be built at the site and add to a pledge to make the hub’s operations net-zero by the end of the decade.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, who previously returned the base to public ownership, said: “This will deliver our ambition to make the airport net-zero.”

Neil Kirkby, SSE Energy Solutions’ managing director, said: “This fantastic project aligns perfectly with our strategy to help local authorities transition to a net-zero carbon future, while creating great opportunities for local people.”

He added the business has signed a lease to open a base at the airport.

• Pictured, above, from left to right, are Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen; Phil Clements, SSE Energy Solutions’ director of energy infrastructure; and Phil Forster, Teesside International Airport managing director