Ontario International Airport Secures Record VALE Grant for Clean Energy Expansion

Ontario International Airport Secures Record VALE Grant for Clean Energy

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has reached a significant milestone by obtaining its largest-ever grant under the Voluntary Airport Low Emissions (VALE) program, amounting to approximately $4.15 million. This funding, offered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), is set to propel the airport's initiatives aimed at expanding its clean-energy infrastructure.

The grant plays a crucial role in financing 75% of the total $5.53 million project dedicated to installing electric ground support equipment (eGSE) charging infrastructure at Terminals 2 and 4. This project is designed to support electric-powered equipment utilized for servicing aircraft, thereby diminishing the reliance on traditional fuel-powered machinery and contributing to the reduction of harmful emissions.

Atif Elkadi, the CEO of the Ontario International Airport Authority, emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, "This latest investment by the FAA is a tremendous vote of confidence in the work we are doing to build a more sustainable Ontario International Airport." He further highlighted that securing three VALE grants over three consecutive years signifies substantial progress in their emission reduction efforts.

The VALE program is integral to helping commercial airports meet air-quality compliance through funding for eligible projects aimed at lowering emissions. ONT’s recent award follows previous grants that supported the installation of ground power units (GPU) and pre-conditioned air (PCAir), both of which are critical in reducing the fuel consumption of aircraft while they are parked and awaiting departure.

Additionally, this grant represents the federal government fulfilling its 75% stake in the eGSE charger project, facilitated by a competitive procurement process that led to a bid significantly below the initial project cost estimate. This reduction not only limits the local financial burden but also optimizes the airport’s resource management strategy.

Elkadi commented, "This is exactly the kind of strategic partnership that allows us to make significant infrastructure improvements while being responsible stewards of airport resources." Such partnerships are pivotal in enabling airports to enhance operational efficiency while prioritizing sustainability.

About Ontario International Airport

Ranked as the second most popular mid-sized airport according to J.D. Power, Ontario International Airport currently handles over 7 million passengers annually. It offers nonstop flights to more than twenty major airports across the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and Taiwan.

ONT is operated by the Ontario International Airport Authority, which functions through a Joint Powers Agreement involving the City of Ontario and San Bernardino County.

For more detailed information about the airport and its services, visit flyOntario.com and follow @flyONT on social media platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram.