Wind Energy at Detroit Metropolitan Airport
Firstly, it’s worth highlighting that there are most definitely wind turbines at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. Because it is already reducing its consumption of fossil fuels. While the airport can certainly do more, the fact remains that it is already taking steps many others have not. That’s because it produces its own wind energy at two separate locations situated at opposite ends of the facility. This early adoption shows commitment to sustainability and positions the airport as a leader among U.S. transportation hubs.
Local Partnerships Driving Innovation
The Wayne County Airport Authority Board approved a contract with Southern Exposure Renewable Energy Co., a Michigan-based company specializing in clean power. As part of the agreement, they installed five Windspire wind turbines at the airport’s entrance. One turbine sits prominently on Rogell Drive, while another stands near the South Cell Phone Lot on Eureka Road. These installations serve both as functional energy generators and as visible statements of the airport’s dedication to greener operations.
Different from Traditional Wind Turbines
Unlike the towering, three-blade turbines commonly seen on wind farms, these are Windspire units, designed to blend more seamlessly into urban environments. Manufactured by MasTech Manufacturing of Manistee, Michigan, the turbines take on a vertical-axis design. Because of this, they operate quietly and require less space, making them especially suitable for busy airport grounds where both aesthetics and efficiency matter.
They are cylindrical, vertical-axis wind turbines. All that operate quietly while generating electricity. I mean for immediate use. That’s regardless of wind direction.
At only 30-feet in height, they easily fit within DTW’s airspace height limitations.
Will Help with Power
They did the numbers and reported that with the wind up there Power. So life and is all good. At least they calculated that the two units at the South Cell Phone Lot will generate 60 to 70 percent of the power.
More Work Ahead for More Wind Turbines
Of course, the airport acknowledges that there is more to do. These turbines are a starting point, not the finish line. However, by investing in visible, locally made clean technology, Detroit Metropolitan Airport demonstrates that even large, energy-intensive operations can embrace renewable energy in practical and innovative ways. Therefore, while other airports may still be weighing their options, Detroit has already shown that renewable energy is not only feasible but also achievable right at the front door.
The wind energy project is one of many eco friendly initiatives at the airport. DTW has been the world leader in recycling aircraft. As well as de-icing fluid for 8 to 10 years. The new North Terminal is also programmed to harvest daylight. Finally and also to automatically reduce lighting and cooling in terminal areas not in use.
The North Terminal also supplies pre-conditioned air, 400hz power and underground jet fuel to each gate which reduces the need for aircraft engines to be idling and excess vehicles on the ramp. This is expected to reduce emissions of various air pollutants by more than 1,300 tons over the expected life-span of the building.
The airport has installed a solar panel and LED lighting prototype at the North Cell Phone Lot and established more efficient electrical fixtures in the parking structures saving $79,000 in energy costs annually.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the wind turbines at Detroit Metropolitan Airport represent a smart step toward reducing fossil fuel reliance in a sector known for high energy use. The project showcases how collaboration with local companies and the adoption of innovative technology can make airports cleaner, quieter, and more resilient. While more investment will be needed to fully green aviation infrastructure, Detroit’s example proves that progress is possible—and that airports can serve as gateways not only to travel, but also to a more sustainable future.
Wind Turbines at Detroit Airport
Propellers and jet engines aren’t the only thing spinning at Metro Airport these days. So now that it has installed a half dozen wind turbines.
The $75,000 project put six turbines at the north and west sides of the airport. These are not your normal wind turbines. They are made in a cylinder, so the blades are vertical. The made-in-Michigan turbines stand 30 feet tall but measure only four feet wide. They will not interfere with air traffic.
“We’re trying to stay as low as possible,” says Ali Dib, director of facilities for Metro Airport.
Other Green Efforts
Among the other sustainable features at the airport are recycling aircraft de-icing fluids, using old cooking oil from airport concessions for biofuel for airport vehicles, and $1.5 million worth of LED light fixtures (5,000 in total) for taxiway edge lights. Those lights save more than $12 million in energy costs per year compared to the incandescent fixtures they replaced.
Metro Airport is also looking at a number of other sustainable projects, such as installing solar panels, green roofs, and gray-water recycling.
Source: Ali Dib, director of facilities for Metro Airport and Greening Detroit and WWJ Newsradio 950
