World Fuel Services (WFS) has introduced its first all-electric refueler at France’s Toulon Hyères Airport (LFTH). Converted from diesel-power, the first of the 5,283-gallon (20,000-liter) capacity trucks will be used to pump sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a continuous supply of which is now available to business and general aviation customers for the first time at the Vinci Airports-managed gateway.
As it worked on a decarbonization plan with the airport, WFS sought to lower the overall carbon intensity of its fueling operation, not just of the fuel but of the equipment as well. As a result, it pioneered the concept of electrifying existing refuelers rather than disposing of them. Complete with an electric drive train with an integrated pumping system, the converted trucks will serve to effectively eliminate carbon emissions during the fueling process.
"Our shared vision of a sustainable future has propelled us to expand our traditional services beyond renewables such as SAF, solar, and electricity into developing sustainable equipment for airport operations through electrifying traditionally carbon-intensive refueling vehicles," said WFS v-p of fuel supply for Europe Duncan Story.
To further improve the carbon reduction at Toulon, World Kinect Energy Services, WFS’ sustainability division, installed solar panels on the roof of the airport’s fueling office.
“The addition of this new SAF offering and electrification of our refueling operations in collaboration with World Fuel demonstrates Vinci Airports’ commitment to decarbonizing air transport and sustainable mobility,” said airport director Basma Jarbouai. “The availability of biofuels for all our customers at Toulon Hyères Airport is the crossing of an important milestone that will allow them to operate in ever more environmentally friendly conditions.”