Energy as a weapon, part II

The Netherlands armed forces have recently adopted an operational energy strategy (OES). The ambition is to reduce the dependency on fossil fuels by 20% in 2030, when compared to 2010. Two questions can be asked: how do we translate this general ambition into specific ambitions for the NLD naval replacement programs and is 20% reduction achievable? When comparing new ships to their predecessors, two parameters seem applicable: the fuel consumption and the energy efficiency design index (EEDI). When measured against these parameters, a reduction of 20% appears feasible if we make use of innovative technology and reduce the top speeds of the ships, both in cruising and in sprinting conditions. In other words, we must change both technology and the operational doctrine. The backup for these claims are provided in this paper by giving a comprehensive overview of available technology and by presenting a case study in which potential savings of innovative technologies are estimated.