Power bank for planes
“The 30 new e-GPUs are another great step towards equipping the entire apron at Schiphol with electric ground equipment in the future. By pooling these e-GPUs, we can make optimal use of the ground equipment and emissions are significantly reduced. We are working together with the sector to introduce more e-GPUs at Schiphol as quickly as possible and to find a solution for widebody planes, for which the e-GPU cannot yet be used.”
Jorben Sprong, Unit Manager Operational Support Apron Services, KLM Ground Services
“The introduction of 30 new e-GPUs is aligned with KLM Equipment Services’ strategy as pool manager and GPU owner to electrify the entire GPU pool by 2030. This process is running parallel to the installation of charging facilities at the airport that are critical for the use of e-GPUs.”
Paul Feldbrugge, manager Fleet Management & Engineering at KLM Equipment Services
The new e-GPUs will be used around the aircraft stands on Pier C and on those on the inside of Pier D. The first 13 e-GPUs are being installed in August and all 30 will be in service this autumn. Combined with the fixed power points offered at various piers, aircraft at the gate will be provided with emission-free power throughout Schiphol. Schiphol runs entirely on power from Dutch wind.
An e-GPU powers aircraft on the ground. This is needed for on-board systems such as lighting and computers in the cockpit when the engines and auxiliary engines are switched off. The power bank consists of multiple batteries powerful enough for narrow body aircraft. Schiphol, in cooperation with ITW GSE and Nissan, designed and successfully tested the mobile e-GPUs at the airport a while back. Before the arrival of these new units, there were already eight in use at Schiphol.
Electricity provides fresh air on board
By increasing the use of electrical devices that provide aircraft with fresh air, 50% of the larger types of aircraft will be able to leave the auxiliary engine off at the gate. This improvement is part of the action plan that Schiphol presented to the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate to limit the use of auxiliary engines. Schiphol considers this a priority because it brings tangible improvements in working conditions and the health of apron employees.
