Schiphol is working with ground handlers and the aviation sector on an emission-free operation. Some aircraft at the gate are already supplied with electricity by e-GPUs (electrical Ground Power Units). These e-GPUs must be moved to charging points for charging. The new H2-GPU can be refueled on site, which saves time and vehicle movements. Also, e-GPUs sometimes have insufficient capacity, which means that diesel GPUs are still needed. In addition to the cleaner HVO100 for diesel, the parties are looking for an emission-free solution, such as the hydrogen GPU.
I am extremely proud that we are the first airport in the world to test this innovation at Schiphol. The hydrogen-powered GPU fits within our ambition to be emission-free with our own activities on the ground by 2030. By constantly innovating and improving, we contribute to improving the air quality for our employees and the immediate environment.
Sybren Hahn, Executive Director Infrastructure
It is important that we develop hydrogen-powered equipment to achieve zero-emission ground operations. Current battery solutions do not always meet operational requirements. At KLM Cityhopper, we are working hard with our partners on technological solutions that we can ultimately use as standard in our operations. I therefore consider it an honor that we are the first to test the new hydrogen GPU.
Maarten Koopmans, Managing Director KLM Cityhopper
Collaboration
The test is being conducted in collaboration with KLM and various other partners and is partly subsidized by the EU. The H2-GPU was developed by Zepp.solutions, a scale-up from Delft, and the Austrian GPU manufacturer Dynell. KES manages the GPU pool at Schiphol and provides the use at the various handlers.
Project TULIPS
Schiphol coordinates the TULIPS project, which is funded by the European Commission. This partnership of 33 European aviation parties and knowledge institutes is developing new technologies and procedures that will accelerate the sustainability of airport operations. In addition to developing this H2-GPU, the project is also working on large-scale SAF deliveries, sustainable energy storage and circular material solutions that contribute to the objectives of the EU Green Deal.
