Schiphol Airport Tests World's First Hydrogen-Powered Ground Power Unit
Key Ideas
- Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam is testing the first hydrogen-powered Ground Power Unit (GPU) developed by Dutch firm zepp.solutions for stationary aircraft at the gate.
- The H2-GPU aims to provide emission-free power and can be refueled on-site by a tanker truck, unlike battery-based e-GPUs which need to be moved to charging points.
- The pilot project is a collaboration between Schiphol, KLM, and EU-funded partners, emphasizing the acceleration of sustainability in aviation with green hydrogen technology.
- The innovative H2-GPU is part of the TULIPS project, a European partnership focused on advancing green energy solutions in the aviation industry, marking a significant step towards reducing emissions.
Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, known for its innovation in sustainability, is making groundbreaking strides by testing the world's first hydrogen-powered Ground Power Unit (GPU) for stationary aircraft. Developed by the Dutch firm zepp.solutions in collaboration with Austrian manufacturer Dynell, the H2-GPU aims to provide emission-free power to aircraft at the gate, including lighting and cockpit functions. Unlike battery-based e-GPUs, the H2-GPU can be refueled on-site by a tanker truck, saving time and offering a more efficient solution. The pilot project, conducted in partnership with KLM and EU-funded participants, exclusively uses green hydrogen produced from renewable sources. This initiative aligns with Schiphol's commitment to reducing emissions and accelerating sustainability in aviation. The H2-GPU, subsidized by the EU, is also part of the TULIPS project, a European collaboration involving 29 aviation entities and knowledge institutes. By investing in green energy solutions like the H2-GPU, Schiphol Airport is setting a new standard for environmentally friendly operations in the aviation industry.