Singapore Changi Airport trials use of renewable diesel for ground vehicles

In Singapore, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) is working with airport stakeholders to conduct trials on the use of renewable diesel for heavy and specialised airside vehicles operating at Singapore Changi Airport, as part of its larger effort to decarbonise the Singapore aviation sector. The trials will help Singapore develop the supply chain and procurement processes for using renewable diesel at Changi Airport and evaluate renewable diesel’s operating performance vis-à-vis conventional fossil diesel, including the requirements and frequencies of vehicular and equipment maintenance. The trials will involve all key stakeholders operating specialised vehicles and ground support equipment at Changi Airport, including Changi Airport Group (CAG), dnata, SATS and SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC), which will work together as a community and exchange learning points. The trials are expected to last one year and will inform deliberation on future adoption of renewable diesel to power the heavy and specialised airside vehicle types for which there are no or few viable electric options. The trials are eligible for funding support from CAAS under the Aviation Sustainability Programme to help companies defray the cost of using renewable diesel which can be up to three times more expensive than fossil diesel, and the cost of emissions testing and logistical support.