HOUSTON – The roof of the William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) Red Garage has been transformed into a solar canopy now producing 100% clean, renewable power exclusively for the airport. The photovoltaic system, years in the making, is fully operational and marks a major milestone in Houston Airports’ sustainability efforts.
(Photo Courtesy of Houston Airport System)
“This project is proof that sustainability can be practical, visible and directly tied to the passenger experience,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “Passengers now park under a structure that shields their cars from the Texas sun while generating clean energy that keeps airport operations running efficiently, lowering overall peak demand electrical costs during the day and our carbon footprint. It’s a win for travelers, the city and the planet.”
The system has already generated more than 1.1 gigawatt-hours of electricity while in test mode, with every watt staying at Hobby Airport to power daily operations. At full capacity, the system is designed to produce up to 1 megawatt-hour. The canopies, engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds, also provide covered parking for travelers while turning rooftop space into a renewable energy source.
“This solar canopy project is more than just panels and steel — it’s a statement about the future we want for Houston,” said Houston City Council Member Joaquin Martinez. “Right here in District I, in the neighborhoods I represent, Hobby Airport is now generating its own clean energy. That means lower costs, cleaner air, and a greener future for the families who live, work, and travel through here. As we prepare to welcome the world for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this project shows that sustainability and world-class service can go hand in hand.”
The project was completed in partnership with the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES), which led the design and construction management, and CenterPoint Energy, which oversaw utility integration.
The solar canopy is one of several high-impact energy projects completed in recent years at Houston Airports. Other initiatives include a new central utility plant at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), the installation of more than 20,000 LED light fixtures at IAH and HOU, additional solar arrays on shading canopies, the incorporation of all-electric vehicles into the airport fleet, and recycling nearly all metal and concrete from construction projects. Since 2019, these combined efforts have reduced emissions by 17% at IAH and 32% at HOU.
