Alternative Fuels

The Congressional Research Service recently issued a report that "provides background information and identifies issues for Congress regarding Department of Defense (DOD) alternative fuel initiatives, a subject of debate at congressional hearings on DOD's proposed FY2013 budget."

In the Dec. 14 report, CRS notes that the military services "have spent approximately $48 million on alternative fuels, and the Navy has proposed a $170 million investment in biofuel production capacity. By comparison, DOD purchases of petroleum fuels totaled approximately $17.3 billion in FY2011."

According to a Senate Armed Services Committee summary of the FY-13 defense authorization conference report agreed to last night, the legislative language:

* Does not include a provision of the House-passed bill that would have prohibited fiscal year 2013 funding for the production or purchase of an alternative fuel if the cost of producing or purchasing the alternative fuel exceeds the cost of traditional fossil fuel, with limited exceptions.

* Requires DOD to issue guidance for financing renewable energy projects.

* Authorizes $150.0 million for the Energy Conservation Investment Program.

* Authorizes $200.0 million in funding for the Defense Research and Development (R&D) Rapid Innovation Program to aid in technology transition across a broad spectrum of technologies, including those which will improve energy efficiency, enhance energy security, and reduce the Department's dependence on fossil fuels.

View the CRS report.

View the full FY-13 defense authorization conference report.