Energy Report

The Pentagon yesterday issued a report certifying "that the Defense Department's proposed 2013 budget adequately funds the operational energy strategy, highlighting $9 billion in planned investments to improve energy use in military operations between fiscal years 2013-2017," according to a statement, which adds: "This includes $1.6 billion in fiscal 2013."

The press release further states:

"The innovative approach the Defense Department is taking to achieving greater operational efficiency and boosting combat effectiveness is exactly in line with our new defense strategy," Secretary Leon E. Panetta said. "These investments in new energy technologies, more than 90 percent of which are for energy efficiency or energy performance upgrades, will enable our forces to operate longer and at greater distance while enhancing our energy security at home and, in many cases, reducing costs."

The Operational Energy Strategy, released in June 2011, stated three ways DoD will increase energy security in military operations -- by reducing the demand for fuel, diversifying energy supplies and incorporating these considerations into building the future force.

For the report, Sharon E. Burke, assistant secretary of defense for operational energy plans and programs and her team examined the Defense Department budget to see how well energy investment matched these three elements.

"Our first priority with these investments is to improve combat capabilities for our warfighters," said Burke. "From tactical solar technologies to reduce the need to transport and protect fuel in combat to more efficient aircraft, ship, and combat vehicle engines that let our forces fly, sail, and drive further, the Defense Department is tackling energy use to improve military capability."

View the full report.