A Conversation with Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus

TL;DR

The Navy is advancing renewable energy to maintain global presence and energy security.

Transcript

JOSKOW: Good evening. Welcome to today's Council on Foreign Relations meeting: "Power, Partnership, and Presence: U.S. Navy Leadership." We're pleased to welcome Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus to the-to the Council. This evening's session will focus on the secretary's programs to reduce the Navy's reliance on fossil fuels, grow its utilization of ... Read More

Key Insights

• The U.S. Navy is expanding its fleet size to maintain global presence, aiming to reach 306-308 ships by 2021, reversing a previous decline.
• The Navy has historically led energy transitions, moving from sail to coal, coal to oil, and pioneering nuclear propulsion, and is now advancing renewable energy.
• Energy security is crucial for military effectiveness; the Navy seeks to avoid reliance on volatile fossil fuels and prevent energy from being used as a weapon.
• By 2020, the Navy aims for half of its energy to come from non-fossil sources, with significant progress already made in both fleet and shore facilities.
• The Navy's alternative energy initiatives include biofuels, solar panels, and hybrid ships, reducing fuel dependency and enhancing operational capabilities.
• Climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels, require the Navy to adapt its infrastructure and maintain readiness as first responders to natural disasters.
• Personnel policies have evolved to enhance diversity and retention, including expanding roles for women and increasing maternity leave, strengthening the force.
• Collaboration with private sector and international partners is vital for innovation and implementation of renewable energy technologies, expanding the Navy's capabilities.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is the Navy focused on renewable energy?

The Navy focuses on renewable energy to enhance its operational effectiveness, reduce dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets, and prevent energy from being used as a geopolitical weapon. This transition also addresses climate change impacts, ensuring the Navy remains a global presence and first responder to natural disasters.

Q: How is the Navy expanding its fleet?

The Navy is expanding its fleet to 306-308 ships by 2021, reversing a decline from 316 ships in 2001 to 278 in 2008. This growth is achieved through efficient contracting and building practices, ensuring the Navy maintains its global presence and fulfills its strategic needs.

Q: What role does climate change play in Navy strategy?

Climate change significantly impacts Navy strategy, as rising sea levels threaten naval bases and require the Navy to be ready as first responders to natural disasters. The Navy also ensures freedom of navigation in newly accessible Arctic shipping lanes and addresses potential conflicts over resources due to climate change.

Q: How has the Navy historically led in energy transitions?

The Navy has historically led energy transitions by moving from sail to coal, coal to oil, and pioneering nuclear propulsion. Each transition faced skepticism but ultimately enhanced the Navy's capabilities. Today, the Navy continues this legacy by advancing renewable energy technologies to maintain its strategic edge.

Q: What are the Navy's renewable energy goals?

By 2020, the Navy aims for at least half of its energy to come from non-fossil sources. Significant progress includes achieving this goal onshore by 2015 and advancing biofuels and solar technology in its fleet, with 30% of naval energy currently from alternative sources and growing.

Q: How does the Navy collaborate with the private sector?

The Navy collaborates with the private sector through partnerships and pilot programs to advance renewable energy technologies. These collaborations include investments in biofuel plants and innovations in solar and hybrid technologies, which enhance the Navy's operational capabilities and energy efficiency.

Q: What personnel initiatives has the Navy implemented?

The Navy has implemented personnel initiatives to enhance diversity and retention, such as opening combat roles to women, increasing maternity leave from six to 18 weeks, and extending childcare hours. These initiatives aim to create a stronger, more inclusive force by valuing diverse perspectives and talents.

Q: How do alternative fuels benefit the Navy's operations?

Alternative fuels benefit the Navy's operations by reducing dependency on fossil fuels, lowering operational costs, and enhancing energy security. Biofuels, for instance, are drop-in replacements that require no engine modifications, burn cleaner, and ensure the Navy's strategic independence from volatile global oil markets.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The U.S. Navy is committed to reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and increasing its use of alternative energy to enhance operational effectiveness and maintain global presence. Secretary Ray Mabus highlights the Navy's historical role in energy transitions and its current efforts to lead in renewable energy adoption.

• Significant progress has been made towards the Navy's goal of sourcing half of its energy from non-fossil fuels by 2020. Initiatives include the use of biofuels, solar technology, and hybrid ships, which have already reduced fuel dependency and improved energy security.

• The Navy faces challenges from climate change, such as rising sea levels, which threaten its bases and require adaptive strategies. Collaborative efforts with allies and private sector partnerships are crucial for advancing energy innovations and maintaining military readiness.