Optimizing the Use of Electric Preconditioned Air (PCA) and Ground Power Systems for Airports
As demand for air travel grows, airport-related emissions are increasing and airports are
challenged to reduce associated environmental impacts. In response, expanded regulatory
programs and global climate protection initiatives are being developed that require the
aviation industry—including U.S. airports—to implement new, clean technologies and to
modify operational practices to reduce emissions.
One effective option for reducing the
emissions associated with aircraft auxiliary power units (APUs) and diesel-powered gate
equipment is to convert to electric PCA and electric ground power systems, collectively
referred to as “gate electrification systems.”
The TRB Airport Cooperative Research Program's
ACRP Research Report 207: Optimizing the Use of Electric Preconditioned Air (PCA) and Ground Power Systems for Airports provides guidance in identifying and understanding factors
that contribute to the use or non-use of gate electrification systems (electric preconditioned
air or PCA and electric ground power systems) and ways that airports and airlines can
optimize the use of the systems.
This research includes case studies at a
variety of types and sizes of airports in different climates; an evaluation of how weather and
climate impact utilization; the use and impact of other available ground power and PCA
units; consideration of aircraft hardstand operations; and airport and airline practices for
optimal equipment utilization.
The work includes additional resources: the
ACRP 02-76 Ground Power and PCA Example Utilization Tracking Methodology and the
Self-Assessment Checklist.
This Summary Last Modified On: 11/5/2019