Driven by climate change and the need for energy security, the Department of Defense (DoD) plans to create “zero energy” environments, which will shrink risks for military personnel in the field, reduce the DoD’s carbon footprint and drive clean-energy innovation in the U.S.
Between 2006 and 2009, DoD clean energy investments increased 300%, from $400 million to $1.2 billion. Analysts expect that number to rise to $10 billion annually by 2030. Here are a few ways, in pictures, that the military is using solar technology:
This 5th Marine Regiment uses solar to charge the devices they use daily, saving them up to 8 gallons of diesel fuel a day. Staff Sargent David Doty notes, “By saving fuel for generators, it has cut back on the number of convoys, meaning less opportunity for one of our vehicles to hit an [improvised explosive device].” The arrays are placed over tents during the day. Each is efficient enough to power four computers at once.
Solar Energy USA says
Saving American tax payers money and improving the Earth – awesome!