US army goes green

A deal announced yesterday by the US Defence and Interior Departments will see military land put to use for renewable energy, which it is hoped will cut the military’s $4bn a year energy bill.

Solar, wind geothermal and biomass energy production will begin on military land, which the government will also hope will encourage a further move towards renewable energy in other industries, as well as helping boost the US’s energy independence.

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said in a statement: “Energy security is critical to our national security. Our nation’s military lands hold great renewable energy potential and this partnership will help ensure that we’re tapping into these resources with a smart and focused approach to power our military, reduce energy costs, and grow our nation’s energy independence.”

The renewable energy industry in the US has struggled to take off in recent years, with no clear technology able to challenge oil and gas production for cost and efficiency. Last year it accounted for just 14.3 percent of energy production, with hydroelectricity leading the way.

Leon Panetta, the Defence Secretary, added: “Developing renewable energy is the right thing to do for national security, as well as for the environment and our economy.
“Renewable energy projects built on these lands will provide reliable, local sources of power for military installations, allow for a continued energy supply if the commercial power grid gets disrupted, and will help lower utility costs.”