BACKGROUND
A global coalition of aviation stakeholders have adopted emission reduction targets with a goal to achieve carbon neutral growth in the industry by 2020. Airports around the country are facing climate impacts and are seeking to reduce carbon emissions and become energy independent. Using renewable resources is one strategy in which airports can adapt and respond to these issues. As energy costs from conventional sources increase, implementing renewable resources becomes more financially attractive. Many airports around the country have successfully implemented renewable resources for little to no incremental cost.
Integrating renewable resources into airport operations can be optimized by adopting an overall renewable resource strategic plan rather than just building the business case for individual projects. The renewable resources strategy becomes not only a plan for implementation but an element of other airport planning documents (e.g., master plan, strategic plan). It’s important that as the strategy is being developed, and then implemented, that all stakeholders, internal and external, are brought into the process sooner rather than later to ensure a successful integration. Research has been conducted on renewable energies and resources, but there is no guidance on what steps airports need to take to develop and implement a comprehensive renewable resource strategy.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this research is to provide guidance for airport operators to implement a comprehensive renewable resource strategy. The guidance should have a minimum of 3 sections to address the following functions: (1) finance; (2) planning, engineering, and environmental; and (3) strategy.
