Feasibility study for the multi-energy station airside
In line with global sustainability efforts and ADP’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, this project aims to assess the feasibility of developing a multi-energy station airside at Charles de Gaulle Airport. The station would provide alternative fuels, namely bioNGV (biomethane-based Natural Gas for Vehicles) and hydrogen, to support the decarbonization of ground mobility for both airside and public-side operations.
As airports strive to transition towards greener and more sustainable infrastructure, the adoption of alternative fuels is essential in reducing the environmental impact of ground operations. This feasibility study serves as a critical first step in understanding the technical, economic, and operational viability of establishing a multi-energy refueling station within the airport ecosystem.
A comprehensive feasibility report has been completed and shared with the project consortium. This report presents the findings, technical analysis, infrastructure requirements, regulatory considerations, financial assessments, and potential challenges related to the deployment of such a station. Additionally, the study provides insights into the scalability and replicability of the project, evaluating whether similar solutions can be implemented at other airports.
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Objectives
This feasibility study represents a key milestone in ADP’s roadmap to integrate hydrogen into airport operations and support the long-term vision of decarbonizing airport activities. The core objectives of this initiative are:
Assessing the feasibility of integrating gaseous hydrogen and bioNGV as alternative fuels on the airport platform. This includes evaluating storage, distribution, and refueling infrastructure requirements.
Identifying the technical and logistical challenges associated with establishing a multi-energy refueling station, ensuring that safety, regulatory, and operational standards are met.
Analyzing the environmental and economic benefits of transitioning to cleaner energy sources, measuring potential CO2 emission reductions and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional fuels.
Exploring potential partnerships and collaborations with energy providers, airlines, ground service operators, and regulatory authorities to facilitate the implementation of the project.
Providing a roadmap for future deployment by outlining key steps, investment considerations, and operational strategies needed to successfully integrate a multi-energy refueling station into airport infrastructure.
Path Forward
The findings from this feasibility study will serve as a foundation for future developments in sustainable airport mobility. By successfully implementing a multi-energy station at Charles de Gaulle Airport, ADP will take a significant step toward reducing dependency on fossil fuels, lowering CO2 emissions, and fostering innovation in clean energy solutions.
Furthermore, this project will act as a blueprint for other airports seeking to transition toward alternative fuels, supporting the broader aviation industry’s move towards carbon neutrality. The next steps involve refining the implementation strategy, securing necessary regulatory approvals, and working with stakeholders to bring this vision to reality.
Through these efforts, ADP continues to demonstrate its leadership in driving sustainability in airport operations, paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient, and environmentally responsible future.
Progress
To achieve these objectives, Engie subcontracted or led several studies:
Site studies: Assessing the suitability of the site to host the station.
Civil work and networks studies: Including water management studies (rainwater, fire water, pollution management, water infiltration), process zone, and circulation zone.
General electric studies: Covering high voltage site interface and electric drawings, medium voltage overall electric networks, and infrastructure.
EISA studies: Evaluating the station's impacts on aeronautical activity safety.
ICPE regulation: Online declaration of the project to the French Authority, which regulates installations with potential environmental impact.
Safety studies: Conducting hazardous studies on both hydrogen and CNG stations.
Power sourcing: Assessing availability, connection to the grid, and overall budget for electricity and gas.
Building permit application: Extending the studies led within WP 3.3, these elements are part of the application file for the building permit, which validates the feasibility of the project.
Key figures
The H2 site will decarbonize up to 10 kt/y for the first 5 MW of hydrogen production capacity compared to diesel mobility, and up to 20 kt/y when the full capacity of 10 MW is installed on site.
NCG mobility reduces CO2 emissions of vehicles by 80% compared to diesel mobility.
Project estimated CAPEX: €25 million.