Cost benefit analysis of performing a pilot project for hydrogen-powered ground support equipment at Lemoore Naval Air station

Abstract

The primary purpose of this thesis is to provide a cost benefit analysis of a pilot program at NAS Lemoore for the use of hydrogen fuel cell powered aviation ground support equipment (GSE) and provide general background information on hydrogen power. The analysis is conducted to determine expected program costs and to determine what benefits the Navy could achieve by using hydrogen fuel cell powered tow tractors, electric carts and hydraulic carts. Analysis shows benefits in the following areas: reduced green house gas emissions and noise pollution reduced HAZMAT generation due to reduced oil usage and spills/leaks, reduced maintenance labor costs for fuel cell over diesel engines, and reduced training time required after full fleet fuel cell implementation.