The US Department of Defense (DoD) say they can improve the safety of soldiers in war zones by giving them their own portable solar power systems.
Several different types of renewable energy solutions designed to fit into standard army-issue rucksacks have been unveiled at a recent DoD symposium in Baltimore.
One such solution is the Rucksack Enhanced Portable Power System (REPPS), a solar panel based system which provides battery charging capabilities by combining solar panels, connectors and adaptors for increased charging options. It can charge most common military battery types in five to six hours. If devices with higher power need to be charged, several REPPS may be daisy-chained together.
Another is the aptly named Reusing Existing Natural Wind and Solar system, or RENEWS. It is a hybrid renewable energy system that combines wind turbines along with solar panel energy harvesting capabilities. RENEWS will be able to be transported by two-man teams and is used for higher energy demand needs.
Photovoltaic and wind turbine systems would collect energy and store it in larger battery banks for future use. AC/DC outputs would allow military devices to connect to the system for power.
According to the DoD’s Armed with Science media website, these renewable energy packs will give teams of soldiers on the ground far greater mobility away from grid power and main energy distribution lines and decrease the risks of attacks on large vehicle convoys delivering fuel. It also addresses rising fuel costs.
Over 700 REPPS will be delivered to the front line in Afghanistan along with 125 RENEWS systems as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) program.
