Schiphol is the first airport in the world to test a hydrogen-powered Ground Power Unit (GPU). This so-called H2-GPU supplies KLM CityHopper aircraft on the ground with power for such purposes as lighting and power in the cockpit.
The airport is working with ground handlers and the aviation industry to achieve emission-free operations. The test is part of the TULIPS partnership, initiated by Schiphol and funded by the European Commission. Within TULIPS, 33 European aviation parties and knowledge institutes are working together on technologies and procedures to accelerate the sustainability of airport operations.
Alternative to e-GPUs
It has long been using electric Ground Power Units (e-GPUs) to supply power to aircraft at the gate. These e-GPUs are equipped with a battery. Once the battery is empty, the e-GPU has to be towed to a charging point, which takes time. In addition, e-GPUs do not always have sufficient capacity, so Schiphol sometimes has to fall back on diesel-GPUs.
The H2-GPU could be the answer. The unit can be refuelled back spot, saving time and vehicle movements. H2-GPUs also help further reduce dependence on diesel GPUs. Schiphol is thus reducing CO2 emissions.
Various partners involved
Schiphol is conducting the test in cooperation with various partners, including KLM. The project is receiving European funding. The H2-GPU being tested was developed by Delft-based scale-up Zepp.solutions in collaboration with Austrian GPU manufacturer Dynell. KES manages the GPU pool at Schiphol Airport.
"I am extremely proud that we at Schiphol are the first airport in the world to test this innovation. The hydrogen-powered GPU fits within our ambition to be emission-free with our own ground operations by 2030. By constantly innovating and improving, we contribute to improving air quality for our employees and the immediate environment," said Sybren Hahn, Executive Director Infrastructure at Schiphol.
"It is important that we develop hydrogen-powered equipment to achieve emission-free ground operations. This is because today's battery solutions do not always meet operational requirements. At KLM Cityhopper, we are working hard with our partners to develop technological solutions that we can eventually use as standard in our operations. I therefore consider it an honour that we can be the first to test the new hydrogen GPU," says Maarten Koopmans, Managing Director at KLM Cityhopper.
Also other projects
Within TULIPS, the parties are working not only on the H2-GPU, but also on other projects. These include large-scale Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) deliveries, sustainable energy storage and circular material solutions.
Author: Wouter Hoeffnagel
Image: Schiphol
