Forward-looking airports are preparing for increased power demands and seizing opportunities to integrate renewable energy sources and sustainable aviation fuels into their operations. Successfully navigating this transition requires a holistic approach that balances infrastructure planning, technological innovation, and strategic investment. This paper explores how airports can effectively plan for future power needs, leverage emerging opportunities for cleaner energy and access funding to support the shift toward a more sustainable aviation sector.

Planning for Future Power Needs and Demands at Expanding Airports

As airports expand to accommodate growing passenger and cargo volumes, careful planning for future power needs becomes essential. The process begins with a thorough assessment of current energy consumption across all airport operations, including terminals, ground support equipment, and ancillary facilities. Planners must then forecast future demand, considering anticipated growth, the electrification of ground vehicles and equipment and the potential introduction of new technologies, such as electric or hydrogen-powered aircraft.

This forward-looking approach ensures that the airport’s electrical infrastructure, including b-stations, transformers and distribution systems, can be scaled efficiently and remain resilient. Collaboration with local utilities, government agencies, and airlines is crucial to align airport development with broader regional sustainability and electrification goals. By phasing infrastructure upgrades and prioritizing projects that deliver immediate benefits, airports can manage costs and minimize operational disruptions.

Essential Steps to Take to Plan for Future Power Needs

Assess Current and Future Demand

• Conduct a comprehensive energy audit of existing airport operations (terminals, ground support, hangars, etc.).

• Forecast future demand considering:

  • Passenger and cargo growth projections.

  • Electrification of ground support equipment (GSE), shuttle buses, and service vehicles.

  • Integration of new technologies (e.g., electric aircraft charging, hydrogen infrastructure).

Determine Infrastructure Readiness

• Evaluate grid capacity and resilience for increased loads.

• Plan for scalable electrical infrastructure (substations, transformers, microgrids).

• Incorporate flexibility for future technologies (e.g., hydrogen, battery storage).

• Engage Stakeholders

• Collaborate with utilities, local governments, airlines, and regulatory agencies.

• Align airport master planning with regional electrification and sustainability goals.

Pursue Phased Implementation

• Prioritize “no regrets” upgrades (e.g., LED lighting, HVAC, solar-ready roofs).

• Develop a phased roadmap for major power infrastructure investments.

Opportunities for Energy Efficient Sources of Power at Airports

Airports have a unique opportunity to lead in the adoption of diverse and sustainable power sources. Onsite renewable energy generation, such as solar panels on rooftops and parking structures, can significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity. Where feasible, wind and geothermal energy can further diversify the airport’s energy mix.

The integration of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into airport fuel supply chains is another critical step toward decarbonization. By partnering with SAF producers and investing in blending and storage infrastructure, airports can support the transition to lower-emission flight operations.

Electrification of ground support equipment and vehicles, coupled with the installation of charging infrastructure, not only reduces emissions but also positions airports to accommodate future electric aircraft. Advanced energy storage solutions and microgrids can enhance energy resilience, while smart energy management systems help optimize usage and control costs.

Opportunities for Future Power Generation

Onsite Renewable Generation

• Solar PV on rooftops, parking structures, and available land.

• Wind turbines (where feasible and safe for aviation).

• Geothermal for heating/cooling.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel Integration

• Partner with SAF producers for direct supply to airport fuel farms.

• Develop blending and storage infrastructure for SAF.

• Leverage existing pipelines and logistics for SAF distribution.

Electrification of Ground Operations

• Move GSE and airside vehicles to electric.

• Install charging infrastructure for vehicles and, in the future, electric aircraft.

Energy Storage and Microgrids

• Deploy battery storage to manage peak loads and enhance resilience.

• Consider microgrids for critical operations and backup power.

Demand Response and Smart Controls

• Implement energy management systems to optimize usage and reduce costs.

Funding Opportunities for Renewable Sources and SAF

Securing funding for these initiatives is a multifaceted endeavor. Airports can tap into a range of federal and state grants, such as the Federal Aviation Administration’s Voluntary Airport Low Emissions Program and the Airport Improvement Program, which support investments in clean energy and emissions reduction. State-level incentives, like California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard credits, can help offset the higher costs of SAF.

Public-private partnerships offer another avenue, enabling airports to leverage third- party financing for renewable energy projects through mechanisms like power purchase agreements. Participation in carbon credit and renewable fuel credit markets can generate additional revenue streams, while utility programs may provide rebates for electrification and efficiency upgrades. Finally, collaboration with industry coalitions and international organizations can unlock grants and technical support for pilot projects and large-scale deployments. By strategically combining these funding sources, airports can accelerate their transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

Available Funding Sources

Federal and State Incentives

• U.S. federal grants (FAA Voluntary Airport Low Emissions Program, Airport Improvement Program).

• State-level clean energy grants and incentives (e.g., California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard credits for SAF).

• Renewable Energy Investment Tax Credits (ITC) for solar and storage.

Public-Private Partnerships

• Collaborate with energy developers for third-party financed projects (e.g., power purchase agreements for solar/wind).

• Joint ventures with airlines and fuel suppliers for SAF infrastructure.

Regulatory and Market Mechanisms

• Leverage carbon credits and renewable fuel credits (e.g., LCFS, Renewable Energy Certificates).

• Participate in regional clean energy programs and mandates (e.g., ReFuelEU Aviation, Renewable Energy Directive in Europe).

Utility Programs

• Engage with utility demand response and grid modernization programs.

• Explore utility rebates for electrification and efficiency upgrades.

Industry and International Funding

• Access funding from aviation sustainability coalitions and international bodies (IATA, CORSIA, etc.).

• Seek grants for pilot projects and demonstration programs.

Leading the Way

In an era of rapid transformation and heightened environmental responsibility, airports have a critical role to play in shaping the future of sustainable aviation. By proactively planning for evolving power demands, embracing innovative energy solutions and leveraging diverse funding mechanisms, airports can position themselves as leaders in the global effort to decarbonize air travel. The integration of renewable energy and sustainable aviation fuel not only supports climate goals but also enhances operational resilience and long-term economic viability. With strategic collaboration and investment, the aviation sector can chart a path toward cleaner skies and a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Author

Natalie Rodriguez, CPSM
Assistant Vice President, National Aviation Client Account Manager
natalie.rodriguez@wsp.com

Contributors

John Van Woensel
Senior Vice President Aviation Engineering
john.vanwoensel@wsp.com

Philip Jonat
Vice President, Distributed Energy & Electrification
philip.jonat@wsp.com

Loup-Giang Nguyen
Senior Consultant, Aviation Engineering
loupgiang.nguyen@wsp.com

Omo Esemuede
Senior Vice President, Aviation Engineering
omo.esemuede@wsp.com

wsp.com

WSP is one of the world’s leading professional services firms, uniting its engineering, advisory and science-based expertise to shape communities to advance humanity. From local beginnings to a globe-spanning presence today, WSP operates in over 50 countries and employs approximately 73,000 professionals, known as Visioneers. WSP in the U.S.’s team of 19,000 professionals pioneer solutions and deliver innovative projects across the transportation, infrastructure, environment, building, energy, water and mining and metals sectors.