Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has started building the electric Central Utility Plant (eCUP). This project shows the airport’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions. Once it operates, the eCUP will be a leading example of energy efficiency in the aviation industry.
A Groundbreaking Aviation Sustainability Initiative
The advanced Electric Central Utility Plant aims to significantly lower DFW Airport’s carbon emissions. Essentially, the plant will create power for the Dallas-Fort Worth airport from renewable sources, contributing to the airport’s carbon neutrality targets.
The electric Central Utility Plant (eCUP) is a cutting-edge $234 million facility. Critically, it will provide sufficient, sustainable heating and cooling to support the airport’s growth while maintaining a robust commitment to green energy.
The eCUP’s power will mostly come from the airport’s purchased electricity, which is fully renewable. This is a big step towards zero emissions.
The innovative eCUP is expected to improve operational efficiency and, at the same time, substantially decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Also, it is expected to improve local air quality by reducing ozone precursor emissions. Importantly, the eCUP will also lower the plant’s water usage by 29% compared with today’s systems.
“DFW Airport is investing in the future of sustainable aviation, and the addition of a fully electric utility plant is a major component of achieving net-zero carbon emissions from airport operations by 2030,” said Sean Donohue, Chief Executive Officer, DFW Airport. “As we prepare to build new gates and other critical infrastructure, we also will ensure that our growth is environmentally responsible and resilient. The eCUP will help us meet these goals and further our commitment to sustainability and innovation, while creating more than 1,400 jobs.”
The project has over $116 million in funding. Chiefly, $107 million of that figure comes through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act which supports Infrastructure Investment in the US.
The eCUP begins construction this summer, with a target opening date of mid-2025.
DFW’s Eco-friendly Leadership in the Aviation Sector
DFW’s Vision of Sustainability
DFW Airport is a strong supporter of sustainability. In fact, the airport has implemented several green initiatives, including recycling and energy efficiency programs.
The Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) Airport recently published its 2022 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report titled ‘Shaping Tomorrow.‘ This report shows DFW’s commitment to transparency, outlining the airport’s impacts and performance on critical environmental, social, and governance matters.
Moving towards Zero Emissions
In an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, DFW has set a target to be completely carbon neutral by 2050.
A Comprehensive Approach to ESG
The ESG report from DFW discusses the airport’s aims for environmental targets, positive social influence, and strong corporate governance. These ESG principles form the core of DFW’s sustainability strategy.
With the recovery of global travel in 2022, DFW is ready to utilize its position as a sustainability leader. For example, airport is forming new community partnerships and creating economic opportunities in line with its “Travel. Transformed.” vision.
This year’s ESG report focuses on DFW’s consistent commitment to both sustainable and innovative business processes. The report also notes the airport’s achievements.
- A firm commitment to attaining Net Zero Carbon by the year 2030
- Becoming a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism
- Earning the title of 2022 Texan by Nature (TxN20)
- Being recognized as Corporation of the Year by the Women’s Business Council Southwest (WBCS)
- Receiving the prestigious 2022 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for Large Hub Airports, presented by the Airports Council International (ACI)
- Ensuring that over one-third of the initiatives outlined in the Strategic Plan are directly linked to technology and innovation
- Receiving an Honorable Mention for the Risk Management Society (RIMS) Global Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Award of Distinction
- Being awarded the Public Risk Management Association (PRMA) 2022 Outstanding Achievement for ERM Award
The 2022 ESG report covers the fiscal year 2022, from October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2022.
Click here to see the full report.
DFW: A Sustainable Journey
DFW Airport is embarking on a transformative journey towards sustainability, breaking new ground with its innovative Electric Central Utility Plant. This pioneering endeavor marks a significant step toward achieving zero emissions, propelling the airport industry into a green future.
For more information on the airport’s environmental sustainability initiatives, visit [www.dfwairport.com/sustainability](http://www.dfwairport.com/sustainability).