KIX to Test Mobile eGPU to Provide On-the-ground Aircraft with Cleaner Energy

Kansai Airports announce today that for the first time in Japan, a trial operation of electrical ground power unit (eGPU) will start at Terminal 2 of Kansai International Airport (KIX) on March 27, 2020. The initiative is run in partnership with AGP COPORATION, TAMAGAWA AERO SYSTEMS CO., LTD. and Peach Aviation Limited.

At Terminal 1, fixed GPU provide electrical power to parked aircraft through underground cables; supplied power is used for aircraft electrical systems while aircraft engines are turned off. At Terminal 2, no fixed GPU are installed, and thus power is either produced onboard by the aircraft’s auxiliary power unit (APU) or delivered from the ground by a portable diesel-powered GPU.

The eGPU trial is part of Kansai Airports’ ongoing quest to achieve zero emissions airport. The battery-powered equipment to be tested reduces noise pollution of engines while drastically cutting CO2 emissions by 97% compared with the APU and 90% with the diesel-powered GPU.

Focusing on building a greener environment, Kansai Airports remains committed to pushing forward initiatives that will lower the environmental impact of its 3 airports by working together with its partners.

Trial period: March 27 to July 31, 2020 Location: Terminal 2, KIX Partners: AGP COPORATION, TAMAGAWA AERO SYSTEMS CO., LTD., Peach Aviation Ltd. Purpose: Run a trial of battery-powered eGPU as a possible zero-emissions alternative to conventional power supply to parked aircrafts.