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Author Background

Dr. Irene Miller earned her doctoral degree in Aviation and Space at Oklahoma State University. She is an Assistant Professor in the School of Aviation at Southern Illinois University.

Amy Rutledge earned her master's of Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She is an Assistant Professor in the School of Aviation at Southern Illinois University.

Abstract

The demand for air travel is increasing, and although the aviation industry only accounts for 2% to 3% of global emissions, it is a challenging industry to decarbonize (Ritchie, 2023). To assist with decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, US airports are transitioning to electric vehicles and electricpowered ground support equipment to reduce the environmental impact on the communities they serve. The Federal Aviation Administration provides grant incentives for airports to purchase zero-emissions vehicles, with the intention to reduce pollution in the communities they serve. Currently, many airports do not have the power generation capability or electrical infrastructure required to support the electrification plans of the future (Putnam, 2022). Microgrids may be a practical solution for airports. The Federal Aviation Administration needs to continue providing funding to airports through, for example, the Voluntary Airport Low Emissions Program and the Airport Zero Emissions Vehicle Program to strengthen electrification efforts. Considering the complex energy demands of airports and the surging adoption of electric vehicle technology, the need for airports to decrease reliance on the aging US power grid is significant (National Academies of Sciences, 2021; Osit & Keane, 2021). This study demonstrates that microgrids can effectively power airports, providing a viable alternative to traditional grid reliance (Berman, 2019; Dao, 2019; Redwood Coast Airport microgrid, 2023). To achieve electrification goals, airports need infrastructure that is the correct size, placed in the appropriate location, and ready for use at the correct time. The key to successful electrification is to start planning now.

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