Bhopal Airport goes green: Electric Vehicles to be replaced by 2024

Bhopal's Raja Bhoj airport, under the Airport Authority of India (AAI), has launched electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its efforts to achieve zero carbon emission on campus. The initial phase involves the deployment of two EVs, marking a significant step towards reducing the airport's environmental impact. AAI plans to gradually replace all vehicles with EVs by 2024, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and controlling vehicular emissions.

To support the transition, high voltage and fast-charging stations will be installed strategically throughout the airport premises to cater to the charging needs of EVs and other stakeholders. A parking policy is also in the works, which will include the installation of EV charging stations. Airlines operating at the airport have shown a positive response to replacing their existing vehicles with EVs, and AAI aims to achieve a complete transition by 2024.

Bhopal airport has already achieved Level 2+ Carbon Accreditation by the Airports Council International (ACI) and runs entirely on 100% renewable energy. The airport features a 1 MW ground-mounted solar power plant and an additional carport solar power plant commissioned in February 2023. These initiatives have resulted in significant energy savings and carbon emission reductions.

By generating 1,337,596 units of electricity from solar plants in the 2022-23 period, the airport has saved 1,060 tonnes of CO 2 emissions. Bhopal airport has also implemented various energy-saving measures, such as LED lights, VFD operated AHUs, eco-friendly air conditioning systems, energy- efficient motors, and cooling towers. With its commitment to renewable energy and the adoption of EVs, Bhopal airport is contributing to the broader goal of creating carbon-neutral airports that operate solely on green energy sources. These airports offset any remaining CO 2 emissions under their direct control, ensuring a sustainable and environmentally friendly aviation sector.