Houston, TX — The George Bush Intercontinental Airport will be getting new energy systems that are expected to cut its emissions by 60 percent thanks to $8.8 million in government grants.
The airport, part of the city-run Houston Airport System, was awarded the grants though the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Airport Improvement Program.
The money will go toward new solar panels, heaters and chillers to replace the airport's gas-powered steam energy system, which provides air conditioning and heating for five terminals.
One of the grants comes from the FAA's Voluntary Airport Low Emission program, which the Houston Airport System has received grants from in the past to purchase hybrid sedans and SUVs. The Houston Airport System's fleet is now completely hybrid, and half of the vehicles were purchased through federal grants.
The Voluntary Airport Low Emission program is aimed at reducing ground emissions at commercial airports in areas of the U.S. with higher than normal pollution levels, and grants are given to support projects like low-emission vehicles, refueling and recharging stations, and gate electrification.
Houston is only one of nine airport operators that have received grants through the program, and it expects to have its new heating and cooling system up and running in 2011.
Houston airport - CC license by StuSeeger