IES is supporting Brussels Airport’s ambitious sustainability plans in what has been described as “a significant step up” from the current digital twin technology at airports.
In a bid to reach net zero emissions by 2030, the airport is pioneering decarbonisation modelling at full scale. Creating a digital replica of the 40 most energy intensive buildings at the airport and applying a variety of modelling scenarios including installing PV solar, EV chargers, and electrifying heating, the airport is seeking out the most effective methods to reduce emissions.
The simulation verified up to 63 per cent potential CO2 savings when testing the airport’s decarbonisation pathway, giving the airport the confidence to move forward.
Giulia Barbano, R&D Operations Manager, at IES, said:
“To reach net zero, we must take a holistic approach, and in this particular industry, decarbonising buildings can help us make a positive intervention.
Airports operate across vast space, demand large amounts of power, and experience complex energy interactions. Making any operational change is no small feat and such decisions must be backed by evidence, and that’s where digital twin technology can be a game-changer. Before deploying extensive, zero-carbon solutions, airports must first test their effects on energy, cost, and carbon savings – both before installation and during live operation.
This project is a world-first and demonstrates the effectiveness of digital twin technology in determining the future of complex sites like airports. We are proud to be a partner in this cutting-edge initiative and to work with the great team at Brussels Airport to make a positive long-term impact.”
The airport is taking a leading role in the major EU-funded Stargate initiative, a diverse consortium of 21 partners collaborating to develop innovation solutions aimed at accelerating greener aviation. Christel Vandenhouten, Head of Sustainable Development, at Brussels Airport, explained the impact of this support:
“The funding from the EU has been critical, as well as the 30% contribution from Stargate partners as co-funding. With over 30 projects under the Stargate umbrella, it’s an investment that fosters cross-border collaboration, tackling the challenges of sustainable aviation on a global footing.”
For more like this see:
- The Uses of Digital Twin Technology in Aviation
- Tara Mulrooney, Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Innovation at Edmonton International Airport – “The airport’s complex digital backbone.”
- Interview with Robert Horton, DFW Airport – “Sustainability is complimentary to good business”
