As part of its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport began construction on its $234 million electric Central Utility Plant (eCUP) to provide sustainably powered heating and cooling capacity. The facility will primarily be fueled by electricity purchased by the airport that comes from 100% renewable resources.
Once operational, the eCUP will have several benefits, including:
- Providing additional capacity for future airport growth.
- Substantially decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Improving local air quality by reducing ozone precursor emissions.
- Lowering the plant’s water usage by 29% compared to the current system.
“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, DFW Airport CEO. “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.”
More than $116 million in project funding was supplied from federal sources, including more than $107 million from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Construction on the eCUP will begin in 2023 with completion set for mid-2025.
