Embraer is working with Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) to expand the use of renewable energy at its US facilities with an on-site solar installation at its campus in Melbourne, Florida.
The project is Embraer’s first and largest on-site solar energy generation project across its global operations. Embraer said this new solar installation, at the headquarters of Embraer Executive Jets, will bring it closer to its goal of operating with 100% of its energy generated by renewable sources by 2030 across all global sites.
“This project marks a significant milestone for our company,” said Francisco Gomes Neto, president and CEO of Embraer. “It signifies our commitment to the future of sustainable aviation and our dedication to sustainable growth. Recognising the urgency of the climate crisis, we understand the importance of transitioning to a low-carbon economy. The need to adapt our industry to this new context presents a significant opportunity for growth and innovation.”
“Our customers rely on us for state-of-the-art technology and innovation, whether in the air or on the ground,” said Michael Amalfitano, president and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. “Transitioning a significant portion of our Melbourne campus energy consumption to a more sustainable model will improve our operational efficiency, ensuring that our industry-leading business jets are backed by an infrastructure as advanced as the aircraft themselves.”
FPL SolarVantage offers a turnkey, on-site solar solution. The programme offers commercial and governmental customers a variety of custom solar structures, including canopies, pavilions, roof and ground-mounted solar installations, shelters, benches, tables and trees. Customers work closely with FPL’s team to develop a solution for their facility. The programme requires no upfront costs, and FPL manages the solar asset’s design, installation, and maintenance during the term of the agreement.
“We are excited to welcome Embraer to our FPL SolarVantage programme with an on-site solar installation designed to help them get one step closer to their sustainability goals,” said Tim Oliver, VP of development for FPL. “We applaud their commitment to sustainable energy sources that help keep our air and water clean now and for years to come.”
The solar installation, which features more than 1,900 panels, will be the first at an Embraer US facility to help offset energy consumption on-site. The solar installation has the capacity to supply up to 1,800 MWh/year – most of the energy needed to power its Customer Center facility, Embraer said.
Embraer added that since 2021, when it announced new environmental targets as part of its ESG commitments, the company has continued to prioritise cleaner energy alternatives, including the adoption and increasing use of SAF in flight operations out of its Melbourne facilities.
The on-site solar installation at the Embraer Executive Jets campus is expected to start operations by the end of 2025.