How the Air Force is Tapping Geothermal Power for Green Hydrogen

U.S. Military’s Strategic Interest in Hydrogen Technology

The U.S. military has long been on the forefront of technological innovation, and its engagement with hydrogen technology underscores its commitment to enhancing energy security and operational efficiency. With growing concerns over energy resilience and environmental impact, hydrogen offers a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. The Department of Defense (DoD) sees hydrogen as a key component in its strategy to reduce dependency on petroleum, improve sustainability, and secure energy independence for military operations.

Historical Engagement with Hydrogen

The military’s exploration of hydrogen is not new. Over the years, the DoD has participated in various projects to test and implement hydrogen technologies, reflecting an ongoing commitment to innovation and energy diversification. Here are some notable initiatives:

• Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles: The military has tested hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for logistical and operational purposes. These vehicles provide a quiet, efficient, and emission-free alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles.

• Portable Power Solutions: Portable hydrogen fuel cells have been trialed to provide power in remote or off-grid locations, demonstrating their potential for field operations where conventional power sources are unavailable.

• Backup Power Systems: Hydrogen fuel cells have been used for backup power in critical military infrastructure, ensuring reliability and continuity in power supply during emergencies.

• Research Collaborations: The DoD has partnered with various research institutions and industry leaders to advance hydrogen technology, focusing on improving production, storage, and utilization methods.

Current Initiatives: Green Hydrogen from Geothermal Energy

In recent years, the focus has shifted towards integrating hydrogen production with renewable energy sources. The U.S. Air Force, in particular, is exploring the use of enhanced geothermal energy systems to produce green hydrogen. This initiative aims to create a sustainable and resilient energy supply for military operations, reducing reliance on external energy sources.

The Air Force has issued a solicitation under the Defense Department’s Tradewinds funding platform, calling for next-generation geothermal systems capable of producing green hydrogen. This effort emphasizes the need for data-driven resource mapping and designing geothermal systems that can be deployed globally. The goal is to produce electricity and hydrogen through efficient electrolysis processes, providing a zero-emission energy solution for military applications, including aircraft fuel cells.

Collaborative Geothermal Energy Projects with Industry Innovators

Among the notable partnerships is the collaboration with the Canadian firm Eavor Inc., which has developed a pioneering water-conserving geothermal system. This system is set to be trialed at Joint Base San Antonio in Texas, showcasing its potential to provide eco-friendly energy solutions that conserve vital resources.

In Alaska, at Fort Wainwright, the Atlanta-based firm Teverra is demonstrating an integrated suite of geothermal technologies. This project is designed to optimize energy production and efficiency through innovative integration, promising to enhance the overall performance of geothermal systems in challenging environments.

Further west, at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho and Fort Irwin in California, Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals, Inc. is deploying its AI-enabled geothermal energy assessment system. This advanced technology leverages artificial intelligence to assess and optimize geothermal resources, aiming to significantly reduce exploration time and costs while increasing energy output.

As the military continues to explore and implement hydrogen solutions, it sets a precedent for other sectors to follow, potentially accelerating the adoption of hydrogen technology across various industries. This strategic move towards renewable energy and hydrogen not only reinforces national energy security but also aligns with global sustainability goals, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.