Edmonton International Airport leads Canada in retrofitting runway sweepers with hydrogen-diesel hybrid technology

Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is set to become Canada’s first airport to trial hydrogen-diesel hybrid technology on heavy-duty runway snow sweepers. In partnership with Diesel Tech Industries (DTI), YEG will integrate the Guardian Hydrogen Diesel System into two of its high-emission vehicles, supported by funding from Alberta Innovates.

Details on hydrogen-diesel technology being trialled at Edmonton International Airport

This bold initiative targets one of the airport’s hard-to-abate fleets—Tier 3 diesel-powered runway sweepers—by retrofitting them to operate using hydrogen as a supplementary fuel. The project is expected to reduce diesel consumption, lower emissions, and improve data tracking for fleet management and regulatory compliance, all without requiring extensive infrastructure changes.

Retrofitting these dual-engine vehicles presents unique challenges, including adapting to their demanding operational cycles. However, the potential benefits are significant, especially in advancing hydrogen adoption in aviation ground operations.

“This project presents a bold opportunity to push the boundaries of hydrogen adoption, particularly within the aviation industry,” said Peter Agnew, Vice President, Infrastructure, Facilities & Airside Operations. “Hydrogen/diesel dual-fuel technology offers an innovative pathway to decarbonisation, and we are excited to continue to showcase the practical benefits of hydrogen at YEG.”

DTI’s Chief Operating Officer, Rebecca Goldsack, added: “Edmonton International Airport, in partnership with DTI, is a groundbreaking achievement for international travel and the hydrogen economy on a global scale. The success of this initiative will showcase how hydrogen can transform off-road operations worldwide.”

Mike Mahon, CEO of Alberta Innovates, said: “This project is a compelling example of hydrogen adoption in Alberta which accelerates the transition from research to market-ready solutions.”

The conversion process will begin in spring 2025 and is expected to take around a year. The initiative not only supports YEG’s carbon reduction goals but also plays a role in Alberta’s wider hydrogen economy, aiming to de-risk hydrogen offtake, stimulate innovation, and contribute to developing a skilled clean energy workforce.

Through this collaboration, YEG and DTI aim to set a precedent for sustainable airport operations and drive further adoption of hydrogen technology in commercial transport.

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