Well-to-wheel Analysis of Greenhouse Gases Emissions for Dispenser Operation in the Apron of Istanbul Airport: A Comparative Study

Abstract

This study aims to compare greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of diesel-powered dispenser (DD) and electric-powered dispenser (ED) that are providing refuelling services at Istanbul Airport. The emissions of both dispensers within the framework of the Well-to-Wheel (WTW) system boundary are calculated in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents (kg CO2 eq.) according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report. The study shows that for a "1 m3 refuelling", the GHG emissions of a DD are approximately 14.1 times higher than those of an ED, with a total of 0.549 kg CO2 eq. ED is found to be dominant in reducing the emissions during refuelling, even in a situation where fossil sources dominate the current electricity generation mix. This shows that switching to electric vehicles (EVs) instead of vehicles using diesel fuel may be an appropriate choice at airports with significant operational potential. However, the environmental impact of the ED should be considered in a broader context with a comprehensive life cycle assessment that includes all phases.

Keywords

• Airport operation
• Refuelling
• Dispenser
• Life cycle assessment
• GHG emissions

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