Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 62F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph..
Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 62F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph.
Updated: June 2, 2026 @ 7:18 pm
{KXLG – Watertown, SD} The Watertown Regional Airport is moving closer to securing $3.6 million through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Voluntary Airport Low Emissions (VALE) program to construct parking lot carports equipped with solar panels.
The VALE program has traditionally been limited to airports serving larger population areas, but recent changes to the program made Watertown eligible to apply for funding.
If approved, the project would install solar panels on carport structures in the airport parking lot. Airport officials say the project could significantly reduce monthly utility costs while also providing travelers with some protection from the elements when parking their vehicles.
The Watertown Regional Airport’s utility expenses typically range from $7,000 to $12,000 per month, depending on the season and energy usage. Airport leaders say generating solar power on-site could help greatly lower those costs and improve the airport’s long-term energy efficiency.
The project also aligns with city and airport goals to promote sustainability, manage operational expenses, and support future aviation growth without increasing fees for airport tenants or users.
The next steps include finalizing FAA approval and, if approved, beginning the bidding process for the project.
Meanwhile, the airport continues to see strong passenger growth. The Watertown Regional Airport recorded 1,434 enplanements in May; a 19 percent increase compared to the same month last year.
Denver service accounted for 823 travelers, representing a 66 percent increase over 2025 levels. Service through Minneapolis-St. Paul recorded 611 passengers; a 27 percent increase compared to the airport’s Chicago service during fiscal year 2025.
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