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Chicago airport teams to explore sustainable energy options
The NREL will advise the CDA airport authority on environmentally sustainable initiatives for new passenger facilities planned through its O’Hare 21 project.
Chicago Department of Aviation is collaborating with the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to explore sustainable and efficient energy options at O’Hare International Airport.
An ordinance approved by Chicago City Council will see the federally funded research laboratory advise the airport authority on environmentally sustainable initiatives for new passenger facilities planned through its O’Hare 21 capital improvement project.
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“O’Hare and Midway International Airports are tremendous engines for economic activity across the region, and tremendous drivers of equity through the CDA’s ongoing commitment to establishing opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses,” said mayor Brandon Johnson.
“As we continue to embark on O’Hare 21, one of the city’s largest infrastructure projects this decade, this agreement will help ensure the world’s second busiest airport is second to none when it comes to the sustainable growth of the aviation industry.”
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The ordinance gives the CDA the authority to enter into a series of agreements with the NREL and its operating contractor, the Alliance for Sustainable Energy.
The CDA and its design and construction partners will engage with NREL to study and incorporate renewable power technologies into the airport’s new facilities in a cost-effective manner, including the new O’Hare Global Terminal and new satellite concourses planned through the O’Hare 21 Terminal Area plan.
“As we look ahead to developing new, passenger-centric facilities through O’Hare 21, we must continue to find creative ways to reduce emissions, minimise energy use, conserve water, and reduce waste”
“Chicago’s airports have a long history of implementing industry-leading sustainable initiatives at O’Hare and Midway, dating back to 2003, when Chicago introduced the country’s first Sustainable Airport manual, which has been used on more than 260 development projects at both airports,” added Jamie Rhee, CDA commissioner.
“As we look ahead to developing new, passenger-centric facilities through O’Hare 21, we must continue to find creative ways to reduce emissions, minimise energy use, conserve water, reduce waste, and educate the travelling public about our work and what they can do to help.”
Headquartered in Colorado, the NREL is a federally funded research and development centre created by the Department of Energy focused on advancing the science and engineering of energy efficiency, sustainable transportation, and renewable power technologies.
CDA reports the agreement with NREL will not exceed a three-year period, and the total cost of consultant services will not exceed $500,000.
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How will NREL's advice improve energy efficiency at O’Hare Airport?What renewable power technologies are planned for O’Hare 21 facilities?How can O’Hare 21 reduce emissions and conserve water effectively?What role does the CDA play in promoting sustainable airport growth?How will sustainable initiatives impact minority- and women-owned businesses?
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