CAE breaks ground on large-scale terminal energy project, passenger parking experience top priority
June 18, 2026
Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) has broken ground on a multi-phase terminal energy project. The large-scale project will include the construction of a solar array canopy, as part of a microgrid, on the top deck of the existing parking garage – adding 700 covered garage parking spots for passengers.
Additionally, a battery yard storage facility will be built adjacent to the terminal. Energy generated by the solar panels will be stored in the battery yard and deployed as needed during peak demand periods and at night – providing operational resiliency for the daily needs of the airport.
“Increasing covered parking – to 1500 total covered parking spots at the end of this project – while leveraging a renewable energy source reflects the innovative, future-focused mindset the airport has embraced for this project,” said Frank Murray, Vice President of Engineering and Planning for CAE. “In addition to increasing covered garage parking, we will be harnessing and storing the energy generated, which in turn, will drive down our utility spend by an estimated average of 55% every year.”
The first phase of the terminal energy project focuses on the west side of the parking garage. In recent weeks, passengers parking in the garage have seen signage redirecting traffic to other parts of the parking garage as construction of the new microgrid is now underway.
The project is on track to be fully completed by December 2027.
“The cost savings, the increased energy independence and the enhanced system reliability will allow CAE to see positive impacts with this project for many decades to come,” said Chris White, President and CEO of CAE.
CAE has partnered with engineering consultant firm, CMTA, Inc., for these projects. With an office in Columbia, SC, CMTA, Inc. specializes in a holistic, data-drive approach to building design that combines industry-leading expertise with innovation to create sustainable, efficient solutions.
For parking information during the construction, please visit. FlyCAE.com.
About CMTA, Inc.
CMTA is one of the fastest-growing engineering firms in the United States, with a legacy of pioneering projects that extends across multiple regional offices. Specializing in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering, they utilize a holistic approach that seamlessly combines consulting engineering, technology infrastructure, acoustics consulting, lighting design, and commissioning.
About the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
Now providing 30+ daily flights with nonstop service to 10 major airports in 9 cities including Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York City (LGA), Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. (Dulles and Reagan National), and Newark. Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), a two-time Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ accredited facility, continues to be a major economic driver for the Midlands region. Proudly welcoming over 1.3 million passengers in 2025, CAE is served by American Airlines, Allegiant Air, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, and serves as a regional cargo hub for UPS and served by cargo carrier, FedEx.
