Memphis Airport Invests in Major Energy-Efficient Lighting Upgrade

Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) has been awarded an energy-efficiency incentive through the Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) EnergyRight® for Business & Industry Program, in partnership with Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), following a major LED lighting upgrade at Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM).

The project is delivering substantial energy savings and long-term operational benefits across the airport. Prior to the upgrades, lighting throughout the terminal, parking facilities, cargo areas and exterior spaces was provided by more than 1,900 metal halide, compact fluorescent and high-pressure sodium fixtures, which had become increasingly costly to operate and maintain.

Working with TVA EnergyRight’s technical experts, the airport identified significant energy-saving opportunities and transitioned to modern LED lighting systems.

The project is expected to deliver more than 1.5 GWh in annual energy savings, equivalent to the electricity needed to power 220 homes for an entire year.

With support from TVA EnergyRight and MLGW, the airport’s investment is projected to pay for itself in under six months, with an expected five-year return on investment of nearly $1 million.

“Upgrading to LED lighting throughout MEM is another step forward in our modernization strategy,” said Terry Blue, President and CEO of MSCAA. “This project allows us to simultaneously elevate the passenger experience, enhance safety, and lower operational costs.”

As the local power company serving Memphis, MLGW played a key role in the project, supporting MEM throughout the verification and incentive process and helping ensure the upgrades aligned with broader energy-efficiency goals. MLGW continues to support regional efforts to strengthen large-scale efficiency improvements and operational resilience.

“Programs like this give local businesses and institutions access to technical expertise and incentives that can help turn energy-efficiency opportunities into real projects. The airport is a great example of what that partnership can accomplish: lower energy use, lower costs, modern infrastructure and a stronger return on investment,” said MLGW President and CEO Doug McGowen.

TVA EnergyRight’s Business & Industry Program provides financial incentives and technical guidance to help organizations reduce energy use, lower operating costs and invest in reliable, efficient infrastructure.

“TVA’s mission is to make life better for people in Memphis and throughout the Tennessee Valley,” said Brian Smith, TVA Director of Customer Relations—West TN. “When we can help a major institution like the airport reduce energy use, improve facilities for passengers, and save money to make even more upgrades in the future, we’re doing what we set out to do. We’re proud to work alongside partners like MLGW and the Frederick W. Smith International Airport to deliver this incentive.”