US Navy to introduce biofuels to power fleet

26 January 2010

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of the Navy are to develop advanced biofuels and other renewable energy systems.

‘This agreement is part of President Obama’s vision of a coordinated federal effort to build a clean energy economy, create new jobs and reduce our dependence on foreign oil,’ said US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. ‘USDA looks forward to working with the Navy and other public and private partners to advance the production of renewable energy by sharing technical, program management and financial expertise.’

Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus emphasised how partnering with USDA supports his vision for energy reform. He said, ‘In order to secure the strategic energy future of the United States, create a more nimble and effective fighting force, and protect our planet from destabilizing climate changes, I have committed the Navy and Marine Corps to meet aggressive energy targets that go far beyond previous measures.’

Mabus announced five energy targets for the Navy and Marine Corps, with biofuels a major component. This includes developing ships with hybrid electric alternative power systems running on biofuel, and aircraft running on biofuel. The navy will also aim to cut petroleum use in its 50,000 non-tactical commercial fleet in half, by phasing in hybrid, flex fuel and electric vehicles, by 2015.

Mabus also said that the Navy will also aim to produce at least half of shore based installations’ energy requirements from alternative sources by 2020

The Department of the Navy recently established a Naval 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 initiatives.

Copyright © 2010 NewNet

Tags: biofuel

This story was published on Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 at 1:08 pm and is filed under North America, biomass/biofuel, companies. You can follow any responses to article entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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