Federal Energy Dynamic Duo: Navy and Ag Team on Energy Efficiency and Renewables

2009 was the year things really started to percolate, and though it's still January, DOD energy activities are off to a fast start. We'll be getting another energy audit update from Afghanistan soon, this time time focusing on Air Force ops and facilities.

Meanwhile, the Navy keeps up its leadership and momentum with an innovate partnership with one of the large Federal organizations that's most forward thinking on energy matters: the Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Today Navy Secretary Ray Mabus and Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) committing their folks to cooperation and collaboration on a number of fronts, including:

1. Share technical, program management, and financial expertise in actions undertaken by the Parties in support of renewable energy projects, pilots, and programs
2. Cooperate in developing a mutually reinforcing strategy and plans to implement renewable energy programs, pilots, and initiatives
3. Collaborate on funding and execution of applicable elements to projects, to the extent permitted by existing regulations and authorities
4. Support establishment of evaluation and implementation venues which develop advanced biofuels and renewable energy processes that are sustainable from an economic, social, as well as environmental perspective

It will be fascinating to watch what comes out of this unique relationship. Will be keeping an eye on it and will share updates as they become available.

Photo Credit: USN's 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien