As airports around the world work towards sustainability, it is essential to understand the economic implications of adopting green technologies. To address this need, VIL has developed an innovative Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) calculation tool specifically designed for Ground Support Equipment (GSE) as part of the STARGATE project, an initiative aimed at making tomorrow’s aviation sector greener,
co-funded by the European Commission. This tool enables airport operators and decision-makers to assess and compare the TCO of various sustainable powertrain technologies, including Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), and HVO100 systems.
A comprehensive analysis of costs
The TCO tool provides a comprehensive breakdown of capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operational expenses (OPEX). It takes into account factors such as fuel consumption, maintenance, insurance, depreciation,
and residual value, offering a complete overview of the costs associated with each technology. By entering specific parameters like vehicle type, operational shifts, and fuel prices, users can gain personalized insights into the economic viability of their decisions.
Designed for practical insights
The tool is designed to provide a transparent, indicative overview of costs and is not intended to replace formal quotations or contracts. By using general data and assumptions gathered from expert interviews, vendor input, and project partner feedback, the model assists users in making informed decisions about transitioning to sustainable ground support equipment (GSE). Users can analyze scenarios involving five types of GSE:
deck loaders, ground power units, baggage handlers, pushback tugs, and catering trucks.
Beyond financial metrics
The TCO tool also includes environmental factors by calculating CO2 emissions for each type of fuel.
By considering both well-to-tank and tank-to-wheel emissions, the tool allows users to evaluate the overall impact of their choices. It highlights the potential of green hydrogen and renewable electricity in reducing carbon footprints.
A path to greener airports
Sustainability and cost-effectiveness can go hand-in-hand, to foster a more sustainable future. The STARGATE TCO tool bridges the gap by equipping stakeholders with the data needed to make sound investments.
By embracing innovative technologies and leveraging tools like this, airports can lead toward a cleaner, greener future.
You can access the STARGATE TCO tool and its applications in Logibox, VIL’s digital toolbox, to explore the tool directly. For more information about the STARGATE TCO tool and its applications, visit the STARGATE website or contact Julie Stuer.
The project received funding under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, under grant agreement GA101037053.
