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The Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) now has geothermal technology at the Jerry E. Abramson Terminal with the largest geothermal wellfield of any U.S. airport.
Through the use of geothermal energy, SDF can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Geothermal energy is a clean and renewable source, allowing the airport to significantly improve sustainable practices. The project totaled $120 million and was a part of the SDF Next Program, seeing upwards of $500 million invested into the terminal for continued capital improvements.
"This milestone is one I'm pleased to share with you today as it's been more than two years in the making following our groundbreaking," said Dan Mann, the executive director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority. "Beyond the overall innovation of this project, it further confirms our commitment to providing best-in-class facilities for our passengers, while also being an industry leader in reducing carbon emissions and saving energy. This is a win-win any way you look at it."
Once the project is completed it is expected to save $400,000 in utility costs annually and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by 80 percent. Through the use of geothermal technology, SDF can save costs with long-term use since the geothermal systems require less maintenance and will last longer than conventional HVAC systems. The FAA awarded $10.6 million to SDF as part of the Voluntary Airport Low Emissions Grant Program, which aims to bolster sustainability at airports by providing support for projects like this and making cost-effective energy solutions.
Through its investment in geothermal technology, SDF has demonstrated that the aviation industry can reduce its environmental impact significantly while still running operations efficiently. Through the airport's long-term investment in the future, SDF is making an investment in the future of the aviation industry.
"We are pleased to work with Dan Mann, Brian Sinnwell, Megan Thoben and the entire team at SDF on this project," said Dave Mayer, partner at CMTA, Inc. "They fully embraced thinking outside-the-box to come up with a solution to upgrading its mechanical systems facility-wide and allowed us to use this as an opportunity to broaden and enhance their overall sustainability initiatives."
As part of the SDF Next Program, the geothermal project will help reduce overall energy use by up to 45 percent. Lighting and mechanical systems will be upgraded and energy-efficient envelope upgrades will be installed in the terminal and there will be alternative transportation options available. SDF is looking into the possibility of installing an electric charging station for cars and ground support equipment.
SDF is setting a new standard for sustainability. With the largest geothermal wellfield in U.S. airports, SDF has reached a significant milestone in sustainability and demonstrated what can be done with a commitment to change. With additional phases in coming years, this project will improve SDF's environmental impact and save on energy costs.