Opinion

Airport electrification: Solutions for infrastructure challenges

The lack of charging infrastructure is frequently cited as a reason not to invest in electric GSE. Innovative charging solutions are necessary to make the electric transition, writes Aleksandra Ovchinnikova, Marketing Manager at Advanced Charging Technologies.

Picture credit: Advanced Charging Technologies

The global aviation industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance sustainability. 

One of the most significant steps toward achieving these goals is the electrification of airport operations, particularly through the adoption of electric Ground Support Equipment (eGSE).

This transition promises substantial environmental and operational benefits but also presents a range of complex infrastructure challenges. 

Addressing these challenges effectively requires innovative solutions, particularly in the realm of charging infrastructure.

The imperative for electrification

Airports are bustling hubs of activity, with a wide range of ground support equipment essential for daily operations. 

From baggage tractors to aircraft tugs and ground power units, this equipment has traditionally been powered by diesel engines, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution. 

Transitioning to eGSE offers a clear pathway to reducing these emissions, improving air quality, and aligning with global sustainability targets. 

However, the shift to electrification has its challenges. Airports must undergo significant infrastructural transformations to support the deployment and efficient operation of eGSE, which includes upgrading power systems, strategically placing charging stations, and ensuring the resilience and reliability of the entire electrical network.

Upgrading power systems

One of the primary challenges in transitioning to eGSE is ensuring that the airport's electrical infrastructure can handle the increased load. 

Traditional power systems at many airports are not designed to support the high demand of multiple charging stations operating simultaneously. 

This necessitates comprehensive upgrades to transformers, substations, and distribution networks.

Upgrading these components is a significant undertaking that requires detailed planning and substantial investment. 

It involves not only increasing the capacity of the electrical system but also ensuring its reliability and resilience. 

Airports must work closely with utility providers to enhance grid connections and implement technologies that can manage peak loads and prevent outages. 

Innovative solutions, such as the integration of microgrids and energy storage systems, are being explored to create more resilient and self-sustaining power infrastructures. 

Microgrids can operate independently or in conjunction with the main grid, providing a reliable power source for critical operations even during grid disturbances. 

Energy storage systems, such as batteries, can store excess energy generated during off-peak times and release it during peak demand, smoothing out fluctuations and enhancing overall stability.

Strategic placement of charging stations

Effective deployment of eGSE relies heavily on the strategic placement of charging stations.

These stations need to be accessible to ground support vehicles yet strategically located to optimize operational efficiency and minimize downtime. 

The placement of charging stations requires careful consideration of the airport's layout and traffic patterns to ensure that eGSE can be charged conveniently without causing congestion or operational delays.

Airports are adopting various strategies to address this challenge. 

Some are implementing centralized charging hubs where multiple eGSE can be charged simultaneously, reducing the need for numerous individual charging points scattered across the facility. 

Others are exploring mobile charging units that can be relocated as needed to support dynamic operational requirements.

Smart charging systems are also being employed to optimize energy use and manage the charging process efficiently. 

These systems can prioritize charging based on the state of charge of each vehicle, operational schedules, and real-time power availability. 

By doing so, they ensure that the most critical equipment is always ready for use while avoiding excessive strain on the electrical network.

Financial strategies and phased implementation

The financial outlay required for the necessary infrastructure enhancements can be substantial.

Airports need to adopt strategic financial planning to manage these costs effectively. 

Leveraging funding from government grants, green bonds, and partnerships with technology providers can help offset the initial investment.

Many airports are adopting phased implementation approaches to manage financial risks and ensure smooth transitions. 

This involves starting with pilot projects that allow airports to test technologies and strategies on a smaller scale before full-scale deployment. 

Pilot projects provide valuable data and insights that can inform larger implementations, allowing airports to refine their approaches and avoid costly mistakes.

Innovations and technological solutions

Advanced Charging Technologies (ACT) provides solutions designed to integrate seamlessly with existing airport infrastructures, minimizing the need for extensive modifications. 

ACT's Quantum Outdoor chargers support various types of ground support equipment and batteries, including lithium-ion, sealed lead-acid (VRLA & AGM), and flooded lead-acid. 

These chargers achieve over 94% peak charge efficiency and 93.5% total cycle efficiency, effectively reducing power consumption and energy costs.

These chargers are NEMA 3R Outdoor Rated and certified to UL, cUL, CE, RCM standards, ensuring reliable operation in challenging conditions. 

Their modular, plug-and-play design allows for quick installation, and auto-bypass of faulty modules ensures uninterrupted operations.

ACT’s patented chargers feature cloud connectivity for remote management, real-time analytics, over the air updates and issue alerts. 

Automated data uploads and command sending are accessible from any device, and continuous improvements are facilitated via remote firmware and software updates.

By integrating ACT’s Quantum Outdoor chargers, airports can achieve a smooth transition to eGSE with minimal infrastructure changes, simplifying the electrification process while reducing costs and ensuring efficient adoption of electric ground support equipment.

Future outlook

The journey toward airport electrification is a complex and ongoing process, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges. 

As more airports embrace eGSE, the industry is poised to see significant advancements in technology, infrastructure, and operational practices.

Continued collaboration between airports, technology providers, and regulatory bodies will be crucial in standardizing practices and ensuring interoperability across different systems. 

Developing industry-wide standards for eGSE and its supporting infrastructure will help accelerate adoption and reduce costs, making it easier for airports worldwide to transition to electric operations.

Investment in research and development will also play a critical role in advancing eGSE technologies. 

Improvements in battery efficiency, charging speed, and smart energy management systems will enhance the viability and attractiveness of eGSE, driving further adoption.

Advancing airport electrification through the adoption of eGSE is a vital step toward achieving the aviation industry's sustainability goals. 

While the challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable. 

Through strategic planning, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts, airports can overcome these hurdles and set a course for a greener, more efficient future.

The lessons learned from early adopters provide a valuable roadmap for others to follow, showcasing the benefits of eGSE and the potential for transformative change in airport operations. 

As the industry continues to evolve, the transition to electrification will undoubtedly become a cornerstone of sustainable aviation, paving the way for a cleaner and more resilient future.

This article was published in the October 2024 issue of Ground Handling International, click here to read the digital edition and click here to subscribe.


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