Military Planners Explore Options For Reducing Reliance On Oil-based Energy

摘要

With oil prices reaching a record high of USD 147 per barrel during 2008, and firm commitments by many governments to reduce dependence on traditional fuel sources and cut greenhouse-gas emissions, the need to develop viable alternative fuels is more pressing than ever. The increase in fuel costs has had a significant detrimental effect on defence budgets, especially for Western countries that are net importers of oil. This dependence on imports highlights the strategic and security implications of the search for alternative fuel sources. According to the US Department of Energy's Energy Information Administration, global oil consumption currently stands at about 86 million barrels per day and is expected to rise to 118 million barrels a day by 2025. Of this total, the United States consumes 24 per cent, with its requirements exceeding domestic supply by 10.5 million barrels per day; this is projected to increase to 19.7 million barrels a day by 2025.