The aviation industry contributes around 2-3% of global CO₂ emissions, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), making sustainability a top priority for airlines worldwide. In Nepal, where domestic air travel is essential for connectivity, efforts to embrace greener alternatives have gained significant momentum in recent years. Buddha Air, Nepal’s leading domestic airline, has taken a major step towards sustainable aviation by introducing electric Ground Power Units (e-GPUs), which reduce the reliance on diesel-powered systems.
What is a Ground Power Unit (GPU)?
A Ground Power Unit (GPU) is a device that provides electrical power to an aircraft while it is parked at an airport. In the absence of engine power, GPUs supply energy to essential aircraft systems such as lighting, avionics, air conditioning, hydraulics, and pneumatics. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) notes that GPUs are essential for the smooth operation of aircraft on the ground after engines are shut down.
Traditionally, Nepal’s aviation sector has relied on diesel-powered GPUs, which have significant drawbacks, including high fuel costs, air and noise pollution, and logistical challenges. These diesel systems were standard in the industry, but their negative impact on the environment and operational efficiency has led to a shift toward more sustainable solutions.
Transition to Electric Ground Power Units
Buddha Air’s transition from diesel to electric GPUs marks a significant milestone in Nepal’s commitment to sustainable aviation. Diwakar Shrestha, the Ground Support Equipment (GSE) In-Charge at Buddha Air, explains the importance of this change: “When an aircraft is on the ground, it still requires power to operate. Traditionally, diesel-powered GPUs were used. At Tribhuvan International Airport alone, we consumed around 18,000 liters of diesel each month, and other airports across Nepal also used between 18,000 and 20,000 liters monthly.”
Shrestha recounts the challenges the team faced in switching to electric GPUs: “When we first began exploring alternatives to diesel, it was a significant challenge. However, through resourcefulness, local expertise, and the support of Nepali technologies, we successfully implemented the electric GPU system.”
Benefits of Electric GPUs
The shift to electric GPUs has led to remarkable improvements in both environmental and operational performance. Kaushal Bhandari, the Station Manager at Biratnagar for Buddha Air, highlights the positive changes: “Before, diesel-powered GPUs produced excessive noise, making communication between staff difficult. Now, with electric GPUs, we’ve eliminated this noise pollution, resulting in smoother operations and a much more efficient work environment.”
Electric GPUs offer several key advantages over their diesel counterparts. These systems generate zero carbon emissions, contributing to Nepal’s broader efforts to build a sustainable aviation sector. Moreover, they reduce operational costs by eliminating the need for diesel fuel, further increasing the sustainability of ground operations.
Support from CAAN and Future Expansion
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has played a vital role in facilitating the adoption of electric GPUs across the country. Subhash Jha, Airport Chief at Biratnagar, CAAN, explains the Authority’s involvement: “When Buddha Air proposed replacing diesel GPUs, CAAN took immediate action by providing a dedicated transformer for the electric GPUs. This support enabled us to roll out the technology at seven domestic airports in Nepal.”
Jha further elaborates on the success of the initiative: “The transition has been overwhelmingly positive. CAAN is satisfied with the results, and we are confident that the investment in electric GPUs will pay off as their use increases across all airlines. This is a major development for Nepal’s aviation sector, and we are proud of the progress.”
A Step Toward Sustainable Aviation
Buddha Air’s initiative is a clear example of how the Nepali aviation sector is embracing innovation to reduce carbon footprints and improve operational efficiency. With seven airports already equipped with electric GPUs, the expansion of this technology is poised to continue. By cutting fuel consumption, enhancing efficiency, and reducing pollution, this move sets a positive precedent for the future of aviation in Nepal and globally.
Through these efforts, Nepal is not only improving its aviation operations but also contributing to the global movement towards greener, more sustainable aviation practices. As electric GPUs become the norm across the country, Nepal’s aviation industry is taking important steps toward a cleaner, more eco-friendly future.