Pratt & Whitney methodology aims to incentivize engine washing to curb fuel use
WASHINGTON (5 May) – A new methodology to quantify the greenhouse gas benefits of curbing jet fuel consumption by washing engines has been approved for use under the VCS Program. Based on the quantification of emission reductions, project proponents can issue and sell verified GHG credits known as Verified Carbon Units, or VCUs.
Developed by Pratt & Whitney, the methodology can be used to quantify and credit the greenhouse gas emission reductions that occur when jet engine efficiency is increased – and fuel consumption reduced – through the washing of engines while on the wings of aircraft. The approach aims to incentivize the use of engine washing that occurs rarely in most airline fleets. While jet engines are periodically scheduled for off-wing overhauling and maintenance, less than five percent of jet engines are actually washed while on the wings of aircraft. This engine washing results in increased propulsive efficiency, thereby reducing fuel consumption. “This is a simple yet powerful way to reduce the fuel consumption of aircraft, which we know are major sources of greenhouse gas emissions,” said VCS CEO David Antonioli. “Simply by incentivizing more frequent engine washing we can increase efficiency and lower emissions. Carbon finance can provide a powerful incentive for promoting the uptake of this innovative approach.”
The approach, which is called Calculating Emission Reductions from Jet Engine Washing, was assessed by two independent auditors under the VCS Methodology Approval Process. Approval means projects may use the methodology to quantify emission reductions and removals and to issue VCUs under the VCS Program.
The first independent validator to review the methodology was First Environment. The second validator, ERM Certification and Verification Services Ltd., was contracted directly by the VCS Association. All assessment reports and other documents are available on the VCS website.