US Navy Announces Biofuel Goals

The US Department of the Navy on Tuesday announced five energy targets for
the Navy and Marine Corps, four of which include biofuels as a major component.

1. When awarding contracts, appropriately consider energy efficiency and
   the energy footprint as additional factors in acquisition decisions.
2. By 2012, demonstrate a Green Strike Group composed of nuclear vessels
   and ships powered by biofuel. By 2016 sail the Strike Group as a Great
   Green Fleet composed of nuclear ships, surface combatants equipped with
   hybrid electric alternative power systems running on biofuel, and
   aircraft running on biofuel.
3. By 2015 cut petroleum use in its 50,000 non-tactical vehicle commercial
   fleet in half, by phasing in hybrid, flex fuel and electric vehicles.
4. By 2020, produce at least half of shore based installations’ energy
   requirements from alternative sources. Also 50% of all shore
   installations will be net zero energy consumers.
5. By 2020 half of DON’s total energy consumption for ships, aircraft,
   tanks, vehicles and shore installations will come from alternative
   sources.

The announcement builds on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) recently signed by the USDA and the Department of the Navy to encourage the development of advanced biofuels and other renewable energy systems.

"As we continue to expand efforts to build a clean energy economy, create new jobs and reduce our dependence on foreign oil, we can use the Navy’s fleet as a catalyst to increase demand for biofuels and spur economic opportunity in rural communities throughout the country," said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan.

From a strategic perspective the objective is to reduce reliance on fossil fuels from volatile areas of the world. Tactically, on the battlefield, the costs of transporting fuel is exponentially increased. In extreme cases a gallon of gasoline could cost up to $400, DON said.

The Department of the Navy recently established the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy Office to develop and employ proven business models and investment strategies that leverage public and private investment to achieve naval, defense, and national energy goals.