Pentagon Ramping Up Clean Energy Investments, Pew Report Says

The Defense Department is accelerating its efforts to invest in clean energy, according to a study from the Pew Charitable Trusts.

In an 84-page report released Wednesday, Pew researchers found the Pentagon increased clean energy investments 300 percent between 2006 and 2009, from $400 million to $1.2 billion.

The investments are expected to pass the $10 billion mark annually by 2013, the report said.

“As one of the largest energy consumers in the world, the Department of Defense has the ability to help shape America’s energy future,” said Phyllis Cuttino, director of the Pew Clean Energy Program. “DoD’s efforts to harness clean energy will save lives, save money and enhance the nation’s energy and economic future. Their work is also helping to spur the growth of the clean energy economy.”

The Air Force aims to meet at least half of its domestic aviation needs through using alternative fuels by 2016.

The Navy and Marine Corps both plan to use alternative energy sources for half of their operational platforms’ energy requirement by 2020.

The Army aims to increase its use of non-petroleum fuels in non-tactical vehicles by 10 percent annually.

Click here to read the full report.