The Main Concepts Regarding Ground Power Units
A Ground Power Unit (GPU) and Power and Electrical Switch Gear is a type of ground support equipment (GSE) that is used to power a non-motorized aircraft while parked on the runway of an airport terminal, airfield or anywhere on the ground. This is just like alternative marine energy or coastal energy sources used for ships moored at the port and whose engines are switched off. GPUs are considered essential ground and aircraft assistance devices because they allow airport managers and crews to serve the aircraft without the need to power them, thus saving expensive fuel costs. Ground power units are also used for aircraft testing and maintenance procedures that require the temporary use of an aircraft's electronic and hydraulic systems. In addition, they are used to light the aircraft and put it in its preparatory stages; this is when the aircraft's auxiliary power unit (APU) is on. Typically, an aircraft will use its APU to power its electronic, hydraulic, electrical and re