Department of Homeland Security, <i>Science and Technology Directorate, Borders and Maritime Security Division</i>: Renewable Energy Research Roadmap

Abstract

Within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate, the Borders and Maritime Security Division (BMD) develops and transitions technologies that help enhance the security of the nation’s borders and waterways without impeding the flow of commerce and travelers. BMD is identifying next-generation renewable-energy solutions for inclusion in its research portfolio. Recognizing the potential of renewable energy to contribute to border security, BMD partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to examine border-security energy demands and to ensure that advances in renewable energy and energy storage lead to increased security in these areas. NREL has examined the energy needs along U.S. borders, especially in remote areas, to identify opportunities to apply renewable energy solutions today and to define the near- and long-term research agendas that will position border components and activities to take advantage of renewable energy technologies in the future. This report is a result of those efforts.