Industry 4.0
Vol. 9 (2024), Issue 4, pg(s) 149-153

SOCIETY & ”INDUSTRY 4.0”

Energy efficiency measures to reduce the carbon footprint: A case study of Tirana airport

  • 1 Polytechnic University of Tirana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering1
  • 2 Environment Manager, Tirana Airport

Abstract

One of the biggest challenges of our century is climate change. The aviation industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, and airports are responsible for a significant portion of this impact. To reduce the carbon footprint of airports, it is necessary to implement energy efficiency measures that can help reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This study analyzes the impact of the use of photovoltaic panels (PV) and the replacement of boiler burners with oil, on energy efficiency and the reduction of carbon emissions at the airport of Tirana. The electricity produced by these panels is used to power airport buildings, lighting systems and other infrastructure, reducing the need for traditional energy sources.
The reviewed period covers the year 2023, because during this year important investments were made with the installation of photovoltaic panels and the replacement of oil boiler burners with LPG burner, in addition to the improvement of the lighting system and the replacement of diesel vehicles with electric vehicles. Energy consumption data is used to calculate the carbon footprint and key energy performance indicators. The results showed that the use of photovoltaic panels and the change of burners of oil boilers brought a significant reduction of the carbon footprint and a significant economic benefit.

Keywords

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