Mitigating Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Emissions During the Aircraft Turnaround Process from the Use of Solar Power at the Airport Gate: The Case of Moi International Airport, Kenya

Abstract

One of the most pervasive trends in the global airport industry in recent times has been the adoption of green renewable technologies. Many airports around the world have now installed photovoltaic (PV) solar systems as a key environmental measure. One of the critical areas of energy management at an airport is the provision of power and cooling at the gate, which is used during the aircraft turnaround process. Historically, the aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU) was the primary power source during the aircraft turnaround process. In recent times, airports have transitioned to the use of fixed electrical ground power (FEGP) and preconditioned air to mitigate the emissions from use of aircraft auxiliary power unit (APUs). Based on an instrumental case study research approach, this study has examined how Moi International Airport in Kenya has mitigated the airport’s carbon footprint by using a green, renewable energy system. The study’s qualitative data was examined by document analysis. The case study revealed that Moi International Airport has installed a photovoltaic (PV) solar system with a 500kW capacity that is used to primarily provide solar power at the airport’s apron area. The photovoltaic (PV) solar system has delivered Moi International Airport with an important environmental related benefit as it has enabled the airport to reduce it carbon footprint, as the photovoltaic (PV) solar system has reduced the airport’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by an estimated 1,300 tonnes per annum.