# Navy Fuel Test: Advancing Towards a Greener Future - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/11/navy-fuel-test-advancing-towards-a-greener-future/ - Published: 2011-11-21T00:28:56-05:00 - Author: greenlivingguy ## U.S. Navy Achieves Milestone in Alternative Fuel Test ### Groundbreaking Demonstration Sets Sail The U.S. Navy has successfully completed its largest demonstration of shipboard alternative fuel use, marking a significant step towards a greener future for maritime operations. On November 17, the Self Defense Test Ship (SDTS) triumphantly arrived at Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme, California, concluding a pivotal 17- hour journey. ### Navy Fuel Test: The SDTS: A Cutting-Edge Test Platform #### From Destroyer to Eco-Pioneer The SDTS, formerly the Spruance-class destroyer ex-Paul F. Foster (EDD 964), now serves as a remotely controlled engineering test and evaluation platform. Consequently, this innovative [vessel](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/05/new-ground-breaking-volvo-penta-powered-hybrid-electric-vessel-sets-sail/) allows the Navy to conduct crucial experiments without risking personnel or operational assets. ![Navy fuel test. Navy fuel test](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/ uploads/2024/09/IMG_5645.png?resize=400%2C400&ssl=1 "Navy fuel test") ### Fueling the Future: Algae-Derived Blend Takes Center Stage #### A Potent Mix Powers Progress for the Navy Fuel Test  Prior to its voyage, the SDTS took on approximately 20,000 gallons of a [groundbreaking fuel blend](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/12/navy-secretary-and-usda-secretary-announce-largest-government-purchase-of-biofuel/). This mixture, comprising 50% algae-derived, hydro-processed algal oil and 50% petroleum F-76, fueled the ship’s journey from Naval Base Point Loma. ### Navy Leadership Emphasizes Environmental Commitment #### Assistant Secretary Highlights Milestone Achievement Jackalyne Pfannenstiel, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations and Environment, underscored the demonstration’s significance. She emphasized the Navy’s role as a technology leader, stating, “This demo, the largest to [date](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/07/6-life-hacks-to-organize-an-eco-friendly-date-for-sustainable-couples/), is a major milestone for us. More than 50 percent of our fuel goes to maritime use.” ### Technical Triumph: Seamless Integration of Alternative Fuel #### No Modifications Necessary The test proved the viability of the algal oil blend as a drop-in fuel replacement. Remarkably, no changes to the ship’s infrastructure or fueling pier were required, showcasing the fuel’s compatibility with existing systems. ### Rigorous Testing Yields Promising Results #### Comprehensive Data Collection During the voyage, engineers meticulously monitored various performance metrics. These included engine speed, start time, fuel manifold pressure, and turbine temperatures, among others. ### Operational Success Confirmed Mike Wolfe, Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Division underway project officer, reported, “From our perspective as the ship’s operators, there was absolutely no difference, whatsoever, in the operation or performance of the ship.” ### Implications for the Future of Naval Operations #### Paving the Way for the Great Green Fleet This successful demonstration brings the Navy closer to its goal of powering a Great Green Fleet. Furthermore, it represents a significant stride towards achieving a sustainable energy future for maritime operations. ### Ongoing Commitment to Alternative Fuel Testing #### Expanding the Scope The Navy continues to push boundaries in alternative fuel testing. Upcoming demonstrations include trials with yard patrol boats at the U.S. Naval Academy and Landing Craft, Air-Cushioned vessels in Panama City, Florida. ### Conclusion: A Sea Change in Naval Energy Strategy The triumphant completion of this alternative fuel demonstration marks a turning point in the U.S. Navy’s energy strategy. By successfully powering a vessel with algae-derived fuel, the Navy proves its commitment to increasing energy security and safeguarding the environment. As these [tests continue to yield positive results](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/07/the-hyundai-ioniq-9-test-drive-results/), the future of naval operations looks increasingly green and sustainable. < p id=”byline”>_** From Naval Sea Systems Command Public Affairs ** Port Hueneme, Calif. (NNS). Source: US Navy Story Number: NNS1111118-03  Release Date: 11/18/2011 12:39:00 AM For more news, visit [www.navy.mil](https://www.navy.mil). ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641? s=300&d=monsterid&r=g) greenlivingguy The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke # Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow. [See Full Bio](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/) [ ](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/)