The Consortium for Science, Policy & Outcomes (CSPO) released a unique tool, the DOD Energy Innovation Atlas, that graphically displays EIT data on energy innovation investments by the Department of Defense (DOD). Recently EIT explored the DOD’s basic science and RD&D energy innovation investment portfolio, and completed a case study on the Army’s Green Warrior Convoy, a demonstration project promoting its fleet of hybrid- and all-electric combat vehicles. DOD’s energy innovation investments emphasize the importance of further exploring the department’s current and future role in the development of breakthrough energy technologies to address its own operational energy needs and for future commercial sector applications.
The tool organizes EIT data in graphical displays showcasing DOD’s investments by military branch and “Program Element” – a category designed by CSPO for the Atlas – exposing investments across specified technology categories. The tool displays total fiscal investment for Program Elements between FY2009-FY2012, plus American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) investments by DOD. The Atlas, which provides an easily accessible picture of DOD’s investments in energy innovation during the past four years, adds further clarity to the discussion concerning the department’s role in building the United States’ energy innovation ecosystem.