Reno, Nev. – The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Voluntary Airport Low Emissions Program (VALE) awarded the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA) $1.2 million to add electric-powered ground support equipment charging stations at Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO). It’s the first time since Congress created the program in 2004 that the FAA recognized RNO’s sustainable energy initiatives.
“I want to sincerely thank our congressional delegation for their unwavering support of our airport,” said Daren Griffin, President/CEO of the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority. “I also commend our Environmental Planning and Engineering team for persevering through an arduous two-year application process.”
In partnership with airline tenants, the RTAA’s Electric Ground Support Charging Stations Project provides the infrastructure to decrease airport-related emissions and improve air quality. Funded entirely by VALE, the grant covers costs associated with the acquisition and installation of 20 charging stations located in the B and C concourses, air cargo and the baggage handling area, along with the electrical infrastructure system for airline-owned equipment such as aircraft pushback tugs, and baggage tractors and belt loaders. Administrative expenses and all costs associated with planning, feasibility and design, bidding, and application preparation and permits were also included.
A national program, VALE is designed to reduce all sources of airport ground emissions and encourages airports to implement clean technology projects that improve air quality such as alternative fuel vehicles, solar technologies, and remote ground power.
The RTAA selected Helix Electric of Nevada, LLC. and Atkins-North American as contractors. In total, the project will employ approximately 37 workers and is scheduled for completion in January 2021.
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The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority receives no state or local funding. All operating revenues are derived from tenant and concession fees. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the 66th busiest commercial airport in the United States, with nearly 4.5 million passengers per year. For more details, visit www.renoairport.com.