Smart and Green Energy (SAGE) for Base Camps Final Report

Renewable energy and energy storage to offset diesel generators at expeditionary contingency bases

“…With regard to previous work, these findings largely confirm those in the PNNL 10 and Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) 13,14 studies, except for the conclusion in the NPS study 13 that energy storage systems have little impact. The findings here suggest that, depending upon the climate zone, incorporating energy storage is the second best improvement after implementing energy efficiency measures.…”

“…Solutions above (to the left) of the simple payback line represent positive ROI within 1 year. Although this study uses different buildings, the concept illustrated by the difference between the middle and right graphs agrees with PNNL's findings in Engels et al10 that savings will be less when a higher baseline scenario is assumed.…”

“…Next, the model generates a mock load for the analysis, relying upon previous studies with a 24-h load profile. 10 However, rather than repeat the same load every day throughout the year, this model introduces a randomized variable that serves to vary the load from the baseline profile within established boundaries. Furthermore, the model decreases this load profile to make it represent lighting and plug loads, but then also introduces Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) loads that increase the load profile even further, while ensuring the FOB's location and climate impacts overall load requirements.…”

“…[7][8][9] Approximately one-third of all wartime fuel is used by generators at FOBs, so there exists an opportunity to reduce the inefficiency of current energy consumption. 10 As one general implored: ''unleash us from the tether of fuel.'' 11 After nearly 20 years, the United States still has FOBs in both Iraq and Afghanistan.…”

“…One study used both theoretical modeling and tests at this FOB laboratory to conclude that the most impactful technologies were smart microgrids and energy efficient shelters, while noting that the assumed improved baseline conditions of larger FOBs resulted in lower savings. 10 Other studies from both academic institutions and government suggest that microgrids with energy storage and scheduling management alone can reduce fuel consumption at FOBs by 20%-30%. 15,16 In addition, researchers are developing optimization models for non-military applications, such as the Food-Energy-Water Microgrid Optimization with Renewable Energy (FEWMORE), which is meant to minimize capital, maintenance, and operations costs for remote Arctic communities.…”