The aviation industry accounts for nearly 8% of all transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions, so reducing these emissions is crucial. While fully electric airliners are still decades away, airports can make a significant impact now. By transitioning their fleet vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs), installing EV charging equipment, and encouraging third-party contractors to use EVs, airports can cut tailpipe emissions. Additionally, providing charging stations for employees, passengers, car rental customers, and the general public further supports this initiative.
Here are some key things that facility managers should know about adding EV charging to an airport.
Electrifying an airport is usually a years-long process
While fully electrifying your airport all at once would be ideal, most airports don't have the budget for such a large expenditure. Instead, many airports gradually build their EV charging capabilities over several years as their budgets allow.
Phase 1
Typically, an airport begins by installing one or two chargers along with the “make-ready” infrastructure (wiring, conduits, concrete pedestals, etc.) for future charging stations in the first year. Building all the make-ready infrastructure at once helps avoid rising material and labor costs in the future.
Phase 2 and Beyond
In subsequent years, airports continue to install the rest of their chargers until they complete their electrification plan. With the make-ready infrastructure already in place, expansion usually involves simply ordering charging stations and plugging them into the existing setup. This phased approach allows airports to apply for government funding each year to help cover costs.
Another factor to consider is whether the airport needs major electrical upgrades, such as new transformers. Installing a new transformer is a significant project, and utility companies often can't do it immediately, potentially leading to an eight-month or longer wait. During this time, airports can install other parts of their EV charging infrastructure that don't rely on the new transformer.