US Navy focuses on alternative biofuels

The government of Queensland, Australia, has signed a Statement of Cooperation to work with the US Navy in support of projects that advance shared interests in alternative fuel development, the navy announced on 18 August.

The agreement was signed during the navy’s Great Green Fleet tour of Australia to promote the navy's energy efficiency and alternative energy initiatives.

The parties will hold discussions on the research, development, supply and sale of alternative fuels, which can improve operational flexibility and increase energy security. 

Thomas Hicks, US Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy for Management, has travelled through Australia meeting with high-ranking Royal Australian Navy officials, the US ambassador, industry leaders, academia, and caucus members at the Queensland Parliament to highlight the US Navy's commitment to alternative energy and energy efficiency measures, learn about new developments in the alternative fuels industry in Australia, and to urge greater research on the benefits of alternative fuel. 

The Great Green Fleet initiative deployed in early 2016 to highlight how energy efficient technology and procedures and alternative energy can provide increased combat capability and flexibility in an operational environment - essentially enabling naval ships to go farther, stay longer and deliver more firepower. 

Alternative fuels are beginning to enter use with the US Navy; many vessels operating in the Pacific Ocean this year have been powered by an alternative fuel blend containing ten percent advanced biofuel derived from beef tallow. The blend requires no changes to engine modifications or operational procedures, is cost-competitive with traditional fuel, and was purchased from a California-based producer as part of the Defense Logistics Agency's normal bulk fuel procurement process.