Energy Independence Helps
October / November 2009
Volume 7 Number 5
Renewable energy leads to homeland security. While some may not see the direct link, the Department of Homeland Security is working to increase homeland security through energy independence.
A continuing reliance on foreign oil and traditional energy supplies leaves the U.S. vulnerable to natural and human threats to energy continuity. DHS commissioned the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to leverage renewable energy advances that help mitigate these issues. Incorporating renewable energy and its natural ally, energy efficiency, into daily operations strengthens the DHS mission and results. NREL provides technology and deployment expertise to DHS. The lab assisted DHS in creating a 10-year renewable energy plan in 2005. Lab personnel also conducted renewable energy resource assessments across all Coast Guard-owned sites in 2005, and are working to assess all DHS sites by the end of 2010. These assessments gauge site potential for renewable energy systems and provide guidance for deployment.
Site assessments are of little use without project deployment. Assistance is underway to implement renewable energy systems across DHS. The department emphasizes the opportunity for wind and photovoltaic deployments at Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection sites to meet electrical and thermal energy needs for border and maritime protection activities.
Technology is only one factor in energy independence. Awareness is essential to change human behavior toward renewable energy and energy efficiency. NREL assisted DHS in holding a renewable energy roundtable this year as a department-wide education program to inform facility managers on renewable energy deployment opportunities and processes. An online renewable energy resource center and accompanying deployment guide is under development as a result of the event. A second roundtable is planned for 2010.
Each of these activities help DHS set renewable energy goals, identify which sites could benefit the most from renewable energy applications, help grow internal awareness about renewable energy opportunities, assist with the implementation of renewable energy systems and help find ways to fulfill homeland security goals while reducing department dependence on non-renewable energy sources. At a departmental level, renewable energy allows DHS to reduce its overall energy bills, diminish greenhouse gas emissions associated with its operations and strengthen its energy security. At a national level, DHS is becoming a leader among federal agencies in demonstrating how renewable energy reduces dependence on traditional energy sources.
Sheila Hayter is a senior research supervisor at NREL, overseeing the work conducted on behalf of the Department of Homeland Security.
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