Navy Seeks Energy Innovation to Power Future Operations

Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan issued a request to American technological innovators. He sought their expertise in developing advanced energy solutions for the Navy's future. The focus was on technologies like small modular nuclear reactors, as well as cutting-edge power generation and storage systems.

Phelan emphasized the importance of these innovations in ensuring the Navy's operational readiness. The goal is to achieve a 99.9% power availability, even during grid failures caused by natural disasters or cyberattacks. This initiative aligns with the administration's commitment to fostering American energy innovation.

The Department of the Navy's release highlighted the critical need for energy resilience. This is to ensure that Navy, Marine, and Department of Defense infrastructure can remain operational under any circumstances. The ability to maintain power during emergencies is considered essential for warfighting capabilities.

The development of these prototypes is particularly crucial due to the military's increasing reliance on artificial intelligence and advanced data technologies. These technologies require significant and consistent processing power, making a reliable energy supply even more critical.

Phelan's initiative is being managed through the Center for Energy, Environment, and Demilitarization. It utilizes the Other Transaction Authority agreement, which allows the Navy to collaborate with non-traditional partners, such as academic researchers, to procure advanced technologies. This approach reflects the administration's priority of encouraging innovation within the military through alternative procurement methods.