Second Life, New Purpose: Nissan LEAF Batteries Power Sustainability at Italy’s Largest Airport

Nissan continues to lead the way in sustainable innovation as 84 end-of-life LEAF batteries begin their second life at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport — Italy’s busiest international gateway. In a major step toward decarbonisation, these reconditioned EV batteries are now helping power a landmark Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) as part of the airport’s journey to net-zero emissions by 2030.

This pioneering project, known as “Pioneer”, has been developed in collaboration with energy company Enel and technology integrator Loccioni, and co-funded by EU Innovation Funds. Nissan’s role has been pivotal, supplying the second-life batteries that contribute 2.1 MWh of clean, stored energy to a system with a total capacity of 10 MWh.

A New Chapter for Nissan LEAF Batteries

The batteries used in this project — originally from high-mileage LEAF vehicles and warranty returns — have been expertly requalified to meet strict performance and safety standards. These Gen 3 (30kWh) and Gen 4 (40kWh) batteries are now working in tandem with a solar farm of 55,000 panels, expected to generate an impressive 31 GWh of renewable electricity annually. This energy helps power airport operations and provides flexible support to the airport grid.

Nissan forecasts that these second-life batteries will remain effective for another 6 to 7 years, even with daily use, proving just how valuable and durable EV technology can be — even beyond the road.

Sustainability That Works – And Lasts

Soufiane El Khomri, Nissan Energy Director for the AMIEO region, shared:

“This project proves the long-term potential of repurposed EV batteries. It highlights Nissan’s commitment to sustainable battery lifecycle management and our role in shaping a clean energy future.”

Nissan's involvement doesn't stop at supplying the batteries. The team is also deeply engaged in the technical integration, lifespan simulation, and performance guarantees of the energy storage system — and will take full responsibility for recycling the batteries once they reach the end of this second life.

Innovation That Inspires

This isn’t Nissan’s first success with second-life energy projects. The company has already delivered reliable storage solutions in places like Spain with the Melilla ESS and the mobile Nomadic Lab project. Now, with Rome Fiumicino’s “Pioneer” initiative, Nissan is once again proving that EV technology can extend far beyond driving.

Enrico Loccioni, founder of Loccioni, summed it up perfectly:

“With Pioneer, we’ve connected energy and mobility on the path to decarbonisation. It’s a collaboration rooted in quality, innovation and sustainability.”

At Western & Barnetts Nissan, we’re proud to be part of a brand that not only leads in electric vehicle design, but also in delivering practical, sustainable solutions for a better future — on and off the road.