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Renewable energy, widely used for centuries, have now become of great relevance in the world's energy supply. The use of renewable, inexhaustible sources of energy which also eliminate local greenhouse gas emissions is a very important part of the country's energy mix. The degree of maturity of technologies such as wind or solar power means that facilities of this type become increasingly available, and there are more options in continuous development and improvement.

Airports have great potential for implementing renewable energy, due to their unique conditions and infrastructure. Thus, the challenge is to integrate the renewable energy systems that are increasingly important in energy provision. There are many applications which can be covered by renewable energy in airports, giving them an ever greater degree of sustainability. Aena Aeropuertos is actively studying the implementation, integration and development of renewable energy systems for its airports.

In this regard it is worth pointing out, to date, the presence of two wind turbines in La Palma Airport, world pioneer in international civil aviation in the use of wind energy as primary energy source, and the thermal solar panels installed on the terrace of Palma de Mallorca Airport, supplying hot water to this building in summer, and in winter connected to the heating circuit which provides central heating to the terminal.

Other facilities for reducing fuel consumption in Aena Aeropuertos are the cogeneration plants at Bilbao and Madrid-Barajas Airports. Both facilities make use of the heat of the gases emitted by the electricity generators and the cold from its low temperature refrigeration, in order to supply the central heating and air conditioning systems. In addition, the engines have electric generators fitted which produce the electricity for the terminal control area.

Likewise, the installation of hot water systems with thermal solar energy in various facilities in the airports of La Gomera, León and Salamanca, as well as renewable energy studies in the airports of Gran Canaria, Málaga and Santander must be highlighted.