Research Paper 106: "Operational Green – Enhancing NATO’s Energy Supply Security", by Jonathan Bitoun.
In an age of austerity, energy costs have become a colossal drain on nation’s defence budgets. Yet NATO has an obligation to ensure the capability of its forces, which are highly dependent on fossil fuels to operate. This dependency, however, translates into more than just high monetary costs, but also security risks and human casualties.
By focusing on solar energy, the new research paper by the Research Division examines how renewable energies can contribute to both reducing NATO forces’ energy demand and diversifying energy supplies, whilst also addressing the glaring security risks of military fossil fuel dependency.
By also examining the Alliance’s energy vulnerabilities and what it has done to address these thus far, this paper seeks to further discuss the role renewable energy can play in enhancing the supply security of NATO militaries; and stimulate debate to further its integration.
Dr Jeffrey Larsen, Division Head Research
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