Tourexpi
TUI has officially inaugurated a major solar
installation consisting of 1,358 panels on the roof of its headquarters in
Zaventem. Developed in collaboration with Eneco Solar, the project represents
another significant milestone in the group’s sustainability strategy. The new
solar array will now provide more than 50% of the site’s annual electricity
consumption, powered entirely by renewable energy produced on-site.
A unique project within the Brussels Airport zone
The installation is a technical first within the Brussels
Airport perimeter, where strict aviation safety and visibility requirements
pose major challenges for solar projects. Before installation, extensive
analyses were conducted, including a structural stability study of the hangar, roof
and energy yield assessments, and adjustments to the lightning protection
system.
Due to its airport location, the project required
approvals from multiple authorities, including Brussels Airport Company, skeyes
(air traffic control), the fire department, and the grid operator. Following a glare
study to ensure pilot safety, low-reflective solar panels were selected to
comply with aviation standards.
Exceptional energy performance
The solar park features 1,358 panels, each with a
capacity of 640 Wp, for an expected annual production of around 800 MWh –
equivalent to the yearly electricity use of 230 Belgian households.
This renewable energy now supplies 53% of TUI’s total
electricity consumption at its Zaventem headquarters. About 70% of the
generated power is used directly on-site, with the remainder fed into the grid.
The installation powers TUI’s Engineering & Maintenance hangar, the central
hub for fleet maintenance and technical support for TUI fly Belgium and other
group airlines.
A milestone for sustainable innovation
The inauguration event, held at TUI’s Zaventem
headquarters, was attended by Thomas Ellerbeck, Member of the Group Executive
Committee and Chief Sustainability Officer of TUI Group; Gunther Hofman,
Managing Director of TUI fly Belgium/Netherlands; and Paul Minjauw, Managing
Director of Eneco Solar.
Guests took part in a project presentation, a rooftop
tour of the solar installation, and a guided visit to the Engineering &
Maintenance hangar.
Thomas Ellerbeck stated:
“By generating renewable energy on our own site, we
not only reduce our ecological footprint but also demonstrate that innovation
and responsibility go hand in hand – even in a complex airport environment.
Sustainability is part of our DNA at TUI, and we continue to see opportunities
in sustainable tourism rather than challenges.”
Paul Minjauw added:
“This project proves that sustainable energy is
possible in places where it once seemed impossible. Together with TUI, we’ve
implemented an innovative solution that not only generates energy but also
inspires. Everyone knows TUI as the company that takes people to the sun – from
today, we are also bringing the sun to them.”
Image
Credit: © TUI Group
The most interesting news
Read the News

Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines strengthen partnership
Starting 1 June 2026, Philippine Airlines will place its (PR) code on Qatar Airways flights from Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao to Doha, and connect to over 20 major European cities, including Paris, Rome, and Frankfurt via Hamad International Airpor
Read the News

SWISS expands India network with new nonstop Bengaluru–Zurich service
Swiss International Air Lines is pleased to announce the launch of new nonstop flights between Bengaluru and Zurich, further enhancing connectivity between Switzerland and India’s leading technology and innovation hub.
Read the News

Radisson Hotel Group expands its footprint in Dubai
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Barsha Heights is a 537-room five-star city hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, affiliated with Radisson Blu, part of Radisson Hotel Group.
Read the News

TAT and Warner Music Japan bring Thailand’s spirit to life
Music-led collaboration showcases Bangkok’s everyday charm while connecting Thailand’s relaxed optimism with younger global audiences
Read the News

Global Travel & Tourism to outpace wider economy by 1.5 times
Global Travel & Tourism is forecast to continue outpacing wider economic growth in 2026, with the sector expected to contribute $12TN to the world economy, accounting for 9.9% of global GDP, according to new data from the World Travel & Tourism Counc
Read the News

Nayarit's jungle coast redefines luxury travel
In the state of Nayarit, the jungle-meets-ocean landscape is emerging as one of the most compelling frontiers in high-end travel—now supported by a new era of seamless access.
Read the News

Hilton signs Hilton Garden Inn in Busan, South Korea
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announced the signing of a franchise agreement with MS&C Co., Ltd. to open Hilton Garden Inn Busan Gijang in 2028. Located in Gijang, Busan, the hotel is planned to be part of a larger mixed-use development project.
Read the News

Six Senses Joins the UNEP and UN Tourism Recipe of Change
A living expression of the brand’s sustainable ethos and Eat With Six Senses philosophy
Read the News

Etihad Airways makes Eid al-Adha and Summer Travel easier
Etihad Airways is preparing for a busy Eid al-Adha and summer travel season, with strong demand expected across its expanding global network.
Read the News

Emirates taps GE Aerospace for repair capabilities
The agreement will support the expansion of the Emirates Engine Maintenance Centre (EEMC)
Read the News

To Belize in the off-season with Alaska Airlines
Why this is the best choice explains Ali Wunderman
Read the News

Closing the gender gap requires tackling structural barriers, improving access to opportunities, and sustained commitment
Women do most of the work in tourism, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership
Read the News

Marriott International expands portfolio in Peru through landmark conversions
The two properties in Lima are set to officially join The Ritz‑Carlton and JW Marriott brand portfolios in 2028, reflecting the city’s rise as a leading global luxury destination.
Read the News

Tripmasters expands with new experience-focused vacation packages
New curated travel collections respond to growing demand for slower, experience-driven vacations with fewer hotel changes and deeper destination immersion
Read the News

TUI launches TUI Smiles Rewards Club
TUI has launched TUI Smiles Rewards Club, the company’s first-ever global loyalty programme, enabling customers to collect Smiles across TUI's portfolio – from flights and hotels to packages, cruises, and experiences.
Read the News

As Americans hit the road during the country’s 250th anniversary, Hilton is celebrating all summer long.
Next week, Hilton is kicking off Hilton Honors America Experiences with a dozen unexpected and unforgettable road trip experiences for only 250 Hilton Honors Points per trip, Hampton by Hilton stays and gas included.
Read the News

Lufthansa Group expands climate protection portfolio
The Lufthansa Group has reshaped its portfolio of climate protection projects and is placing a stronger emphasis on technology-based solutions
Read the News

Enhanced opportunities for British Airways American Express® cardmembers
British Airways American Express® Cardmembers who book with British Airways Holidays using Avios (as a full or part payment), can now redeem their Companion Voucher to receive 25% of these Avios back.
Read the News

Eurowings expands its Berlin base
Growth to eleven aircraft strengthens the Lufthansa Group’s market leadership and long-term strategy in Germany’s capital city
Read the News

In Spain, the year starts with more people employed in the tourism sector
In the first quarter of 2026, there were 146,631 more employees in tourism-related activities than in the same period of 2025.

