Based at the Energypolis Campus in Sion, the start-up Aerostrad is tackling a problem little known to the public: energy consumption by aircraft on the ground. Founded by Elie Maalouli, a Canado-Lebanese engineer with a 15-year background in electric mobility, the company develops mobile and autonomous energy solutions for airports. Supported by The Ark Foundation in 2025, the start-up aims to develop its first proof of concept in 2026.
“Before take-off and after landing, the plane is turned on”, explains Elie Maalouli. This energy, necessary for the plane’s systems to operate, usually comes from kerosene or diesel combustion. The figures are striking. “Half an hour of aircraft standby is equivalent to a journey from Geneva to Milan, all without the aircraft moving, resulting in significant energy waste and CO2 emissions.” It is precisely to tackle this energy waste that Aerostrad developed its technology.
A mobile energy solution for airports
Aerostrad’s solution consists of an autonomous, mobile energy device that goes where energy is needed at the airport. This approach allows aircraft on the ground to be powered, without using traditional diesel generators.
On the technical side, the start-up opted for a tried-and-tested technology. “For now, we are using lithium because it is already a well-established technology, production costs remain low, and it fits within the existing airport infrastructure”, explains the founder. Therefore, it is not necessary to develop a new infrastructure.
What is noteworthy in Aerostrad’s development is its early commercial approach. “We have established contacts with airports and identified potential clients to understand their needs and adapt our product to support them”, explains Elie Maalouli. The start-up is targeting two types of clients: airports and ground handling operators.
A proof of concept in 2026
2025 marked a first step for Aerostrad with its pre-incubation at The Ark Foundation. For 2026, the idea is to develop a proof of concept. Elie Maalouli hopes that this can be carried out in Sion.
This progressive deployment strategy should enable Aerostrad to validate its technology in real-world conditions before conquering larger airports. A bold bet for this Valais-based start-up that wants to contribute to the decarbonisation of the airport sector.
More information on: Aerostrad
