U.S. Navy Successfully Tests Algae Fueled Boat in Move to Lessen Foreign Oil Reliance
October 27, 2010 Kyriaki (Sandy) Venetis 
Sailors conducting manuvers aboard an experimental riverine command boat powered by alternative fuel of 50 percent algae-based and 50 percent NATO-76 fuel oil. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Josue L. Escobosa.
Among other ripple effects, the rise of volatility in the Middle East has also been a strong motivator for the U.S. to seek more energy independence - through renewable resources and biofuels - as a matter of national security.
Last spring, President Barack Obama spoke on energy security at Andrews Air Force Base, saying, “the Pentagon isn’t seeking these alternative fuels just to protect our environment. They’re pursuing these homegrown energy sources to protect our national security.
“Our military leaders recognize the security imperative of increasing the use of alternative fuels, decreasing energy use, reducing our reliance on imported oil, and making ourselves more energy-efficient.”
Last week, the U.S. Navy tested an experimental riverine command boat which used an alternative fuel of 50 percent algae-based and 50 percent NATO-76 fuel oil. The test was part of the Navy’s initiative to reduce the fleet’s reliance on fossil fuels, and was part of a series of tests that are scheduled through 2012.