Navy Displays Military Use of Biofuels and Great Green Fleet at Commissioning of USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000)
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Electricity. When describing the USS Zumwalt, which was commissioned in Baltimore Harbor Saturday, the first characteristic to mention is the new age design (can’t miss that); followed by the key role played by electricity (a bit less obvious). From the “all-electric” propulsion system to the possibility of firing railguns, electromagnetic launchers for long-range weapons, electricity is key.
But how is that electricity generated? On-board to be sure. And using a military spec fuel without a doubt.
Unfortunately, no one at the commissioning mentioned the specific use of fuel to generate that electricity; but the Navy’s commitment to renewable fuels did have a spot at the festivities with a booth staffed by Reservist Darius A. Radzuius that showcased the fuel now being used by the Great Green Fleet.
An estimated crowd of 12,000 invited guests gathered at Baltimore’s Pier 5 to celebrate the “going live” of this newest battleship. Any of them could have stopped to chat and learn more about the renewable fuels powering the Navy around the world.

Reservist Darius A. Radzius staffs the information booth showcasing the Great Green Fleet’s use of biofuels.
On display were vials of examples of feedstock that can be used to make renewable mil spec fuel, along with a jar of the real stuff, hydroprossed renewable F-76 marine diesel.
Read more about the Great Green Fleet.
* Joanne Ivancic serves as the executive director for Advanced Biofuels USA.
Photos by J.Ivancic