The Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) is entering the next round of its successful funding programme on climate- and environmentally-friendly power supply for aircraft on the ground.
Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder: “We are taking responsibility for effective climate protection in aviation with the continuation of funding for climate-friendly ground power in a practical way and with a view to Germany as a location for this. Modern, low-emission energy supply at airports is key to reducing CO₂ without limiting mobility and economic performance. Our funding framework intentionally goes beyond the European minimum requirements of the AFIR and provides clear, reliable incentives for private investment. We are combining European regulatory targets with technological strengths, competitiveness and planning security for the sector.”
The funding has been specifically developed since 2023. In addition to investments, research and development projects can also receive support in the future, in order to usher in the practical application of new technologies more rapidly. Airports and companies then get the opportunity to test innovative solutions that cover the energy demand of aircraft during their downtimes in both an efficient and emission-free way.
New: Funding of PCA systems
The extension of funding to include PCA systems (pre-conditioned air) is a major advance. These systems supply aircraft cabins with conditioned air on the ground, thus replacing emissions-intensive auxiliary gas turbines. Together with ground power systems, PCA systems enable considerable progress in the reduction of greenhouse gases, pollutants and noise emissions.
Three calls for funding in January 2026
Funding will be seamlessly continued and expanded. Since 2023, 26 stakeholders at 21 airports were funded with almost 24 million euros over three funding calls. The more than 215 new ground power systems save around 8,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalents annually and noticeably improve the air and noise quality at Germany’s airports.
The Federal Agency for Administrative Services (BAV) in cooperation with NOW GmbH has been coordinating the programme of behalf of the BMV since 2023. The administrative implementation is undertaken by the BAV.
Dagmar Fehler, CEO and spokesperson of NOW GmbH: “The continuation and expansion of funding demonstrates what is possible when politics, industry and airports pull together. Together we are creating the preconditions for Germany to become an efficient, clean and sustainable aviation transport hub. I am delighted that NOW GmbH has been able to support the funding programme from the beginning and contribute to its further development.”
Three funding calls will be published in January and will be open for applications from 10 February 2026. Details and information can be found on the BAV and NOW GmbH websites:
- Further information as well as registration for the online-seminar on the website of NOW GmbH
- Direct link to application documents on the BAV website
