Hydrogen Ground Power Unit
Groningen Airport Eelde has developed an innovative ground power unit (GPU) that runs on hydrogen. A Ground Power Unit (GPU) is used to supply aircraft with electrical energy while they are on the ground. Diesel-powered GPUs account for more than one-third of the diesel consumption of ground equipment at airports. The GPU has been developed to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3, meaning that the system is in the proof-of-concept phase: the basic design has been validated in a controlled test environment. This project contributes to the ambition to make airports cleaner and quieter
We are ready!
This project is completed and will not be updated further. For questions you may contact the project manager.
Objectives
- Realise a proof of concept that demonstrates the technical feasibility and operational viability of a hydrogen GPU.
- Apply hydrogen as a sustainable energy source at airports, fitting within broader climate objectives.
- Contribute to the development of the North Netherlands hydrogen ecosystem within the broader “Hydrogen Valley” ambition.
Project Details
Start date: January 2022
Completion: June 2023
Leadpartner: Provincie Drenthe
Funding: Interreg North Sea - European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)
Project Results
- A TRL 3 proof of concept of a hydrogen GPU has been realised, designed and tested in a controlled environment.
- Research into impact was carried out by the University of Groningen, focusing on the contribution of hydrogen GPUs to sustainability, emission reduction and system integration at airports.
KES is pleased to contribute towards a Zero Emission airport operation through hydrogen technology. Over the coming years, in principle, all diesel GPUs will be replaced by either hydrogen GPUs or battery-electric GPUs.
Role of Groningen Airport Eelde
Groningen Airport Eelde played an important role as a practical partner in the design and research process of the hydrogen GPU. Although the system has not yet been tested at the airport itself, Eelde contributed operational knowledge about how GPUs are used in practice, which was crucial for the functional requirements and technical design. Additionally, the airport collaborated with the University of Groningen on research into the environmental impact and practical applicability of hydrogen GPUs at airports.