Vilsack, Mabus Highlight Navy Energy Independence in Norfolk, Va.
(Biodiesel Magazine/USDA) US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Energy for Navy Tom Hicks toured the USS Monterey (CG 61) at the Naval Station Norfolk (Va.) on Saturday, Sept. 8, and highlighted the Obama administration’s commitment to energy independence for the nation’s military. During the tour, Vilsack discussed the tremendous opportunities advanced biofuels hold for reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil while creating more jobs in rural communities.
“Developing the next generation of advanced biofuels for our nation’s military is both a national security issue and an economic issue,” Vilsack said. “By utilizing renewable energy produced on American soil, our military forces will become less reliant on fuel that has to be transported long distances and often over supply lines that can be disrupted during times of conflict. Meanwhile, a strong and diverse biofuels industry will support good-paying jobs in rural America that can’t be shipped overseas. Through this joint effort, USDA and the U.S. Navy have the opportunity to create a model for American energy security while ensuring the safety of our troops and the long-term viability of our armed forces.” READ MORE
