Schiphol Pioneers World's First Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft Support Unit
Delft, Tuesday, 13 August 2024.
Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is testing a groundbreaking hydrogen-powered Ground Power Unit (GPU) for aircraft, developed by Dutch firm zepp.solutions. This innovation aims to reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency, marking a significant step towards sustainable airport operations.
A Collaborative Effort in Green Innovation
The hydrogen-powered Ground Power Unit (H2-GPU) is the result of a collaboration between the Dutch scale-up zepp.solutions, based in Delft, and the Austrian GPU manufacturer Dynell. This pilot project is part of the TULIPS program, a European partnership consisting of 29 aviation parties and research institutes, led by the Royal Schiphol Group. The H2-GPU is designed to supply power to stationary aircraft at the gate, providing essential electricity for lighting and cockpit systems.
Advantages Over Traditional Systems
Unlike traditional battery-based electric GPUs (e-GPUs), which need to be transported to charging points, the H2-GPU can be refueled on-site with green hydrogen. This not only saves significant time but also enhances operational efficiency. The green hydrogen used in this test is produced without CO2 emissions, utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. This innovation thus offers a powerful and sustainable alternative to both e-GPUs and diesel-powered GPUs, which are currently used for some operations.
Supporting Emission-Free Ambitions
Schiphol Airport has set an ambitious goal to make all its ground operations emission-free by 2030. The introduction of the H2-GPU is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. Sybren Hahn, Schiphol’s Chief Infrastructure Officer, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, ‘We are incredibly proud to be the first airport worldwide to test this groundbreaking technology. The hydrogen-powered GPU supports our goal of making our ground operations emission-free by 2030. Through ongoing innovation, we aim to improve air quality for both our employees and the surrounding community.’
KLM’s Role in the Pilot
KLM Cityhopper, a key partner in this pilot project, is utilizing the H2-GPU to power its aircraft while they are parked at the gate. Maarten Koopmans, General Director of KLM Cityhopper, highlighted the importance of this development, stating, ‘Battery solutions currently available do not always meet our operational needs. At KLM Cityhopper, we are working with our partners to develop technological solutions that could become standard practice. We are excited to be the first to trial this new hydrogen GPU.’
Broader Implications for the Aviation Industry
The H2-GPU test at Schiphol is more than just a milestone for the airport; it represents a significant advance for the entire aviation industry. The TULIPS project, funded by the European Commission, aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies across European airports. In addition to the H2-GPU, the project is also focused on large-scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) deliveries, sustainable energy storage, and circular material solutions. These initiatives align with the objectives of the EU Green Deal, aiming to make the aviation sector more sustainable.
Bronnen
- www.engineersonline.nl
- www.omroepdelft.nl
- aerospaceglobalnews.com
- www.aviationpros.com
- airportindustry-news.com
- mexicobusiness.news