Army Unveils Hydrogen-Powered Nanogrid for Sustainable Energy Solutions at White Sands Missile Range
Key Ideas
  • The U.S. Army's first hydrogen-powered nanogrid, developed by Sesame Solar, is operational at White Sands Missile Range, offering sustainable and efficient energy solutions.
  • The nanogrid supports wildlife conservation efforts by providing a 'silent watch' with surveillance capabilities powered by hydrogen, aiding in the protection of local flora and fauna.
  • White Sands Missile Range utilizes the nanogrid for research purposes, including powering a weather station for atmospheric and energy research, showcasing the system's adaptability in various applications.
  • A second hydrogen-fueled nanogrid is planned for deployment at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, emphasizing the mobility and versatility of these renewable energy systems.
The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) has unveiled the Army’s first fully self-sufficient hydrogen-powered nanogrid at the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) in New Mexico. The nanogrid, developed by Michigan-based Sesame Solar, is designed for continuous, unattended operation in remote, off-grid locations. It includes solar panels, an atmospheric water generator, an electrolyzer, a fuel cell, low pressure hydrogen storage, and battery energy storage, all housed in a mobile Conex box. Carol Bailey, the project manager, highlighted the nanogrid's sustainability and effectiveness in extreme weather environments. The system, located in the WSMR cantonment area, powers surveillance equipment for wildlife monitoring, aiding in the conservation efforts of local species. Additionally, it supports the Army Research Laboratory’s Atmospheric Intelligence for Hybrid Power Advancements (AIHPA) team in conducting atmospheric and energy research on the base. The nanogrid's capabilities will be further demonstrated with a second deployment planned for Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, showcasing its mobility and adaptability in different environments. The Army's focus on renewable energy solutions like hydrogen nanogrids highlights their commitment to sustainable energy practices and innovation in military technology.
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