The amount of energy the United States (U.S.) consumes increases every year and this growth in energy consumption outpaces energy production. To fill this gap, the U.S. imports 35 percent of its energy. More importantly, the U.S. imports over 60 percent of its total oil consumption. Our country's energy production, especially our transportation sector, is highly dependent on foreign sources. Add to this, 70 percent of this energy is from non-renewable sources and this same 70 percent is petroleum-based, which produces greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy sources and alternative fuels have proven to be energy efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly. Additionally, they reduce the country's dependence on foreign sources. The military is adopting many types of renewable energy sources and alternative fuels for use and the results are impressive. However, the majority of implementation is here in the United States. These same benefits experienced at home are available for the battlefield: improved energy efficiency, cost savings and less impact on the environment. This paper discusses the available green energy sources and their potential use for the battlefield. Additionally, it offers several ways to further the use and maximize the benefits of green energy on the battlefield.

Subjects: Water-power.; Green; Energy; Renewable Energy; Alternative Fuels; Biomass; Geothermal; Hydropower; Wind; Solar; Nuclear; Biodiesel; Ethanol; Natural Gas; Coal-Derived Liquid Fuels; Electricity; Greenhouse Gas; Emissions; Battlefield; Hybrid Vehicles