Huntsville Welcomes Brazilian Army Engineering Officers for Energy Project Exchange
On a sunny morning in Huntsville, Alabama, the city buzzed with excitement as two distinguished guests from the Brazilian Army paid a visit to Redstone Arsenal on August 21. Lt. Col. Heron Alves Dos Santos and Capt. Luiz Pereira Da Silva Neto, both talented officers from Brazil’s Military Works Department, took the opportunity to explore energy initiatives and projects that could inspire similar efforts back home.
Waste to Energy: A Spark of Interest
The day began with a tour of the Solid Waste Disposal Authority of the City of Huntsville, specifically the impressive Waste to Energy Facility. This facility plays a critical role in serving the waste disposal needs of the local community by processing an astonishing 700 tons of municipal solid waste each day. The magic happens when this waste is combusted, generating energy converted into low-pressure steam that’s supplied to nearby Redstone Arsenal.
This creative approach to waste management piqued the interest of the Brazilian engineering officers, who were eager to see how sustainable practices can be integrated into military operations. Such innovation can potentially reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and address the challenges posed by energy logistics.
Getting Energized with Solar Power
Following the waste facility tour, the Brazilian team headed over to examine the 10-megawatt solar photovoltaic system and the 1-megawatt energy storage system at Redstone Arsenal. They spoke with subject matter experts, gaining valuable insights into the solar project. This exploration provided a glimpse into how solar energy can enhance resilience and sustainability in military operations.
Connecting the Dots with Information Exchanges
After soaking in the energy solutions, Lt. Col. Alves Dos Santos and Capt. Pereira Da Silva Neto had the chance to meet with Garrison Commander Col. Erin Eike at Huntsville Center. The Garrison Public Works Directorate presented detailed briefings, allowing for a robust exchange of information about the energy processes and resilience programs currently in place at the Arsenal.
Capt. Pereira Da Silva Neto shared insights into Brazil’s ambitious efforts to provide efficient energy solutions for their remote military outposts, many of which are nestled deep in the Amazon rainforest. “These bases are isolated, with no roads, relying on aerial deliveries for supplies. This makes it quite challenging to transport diesel fuel for their generators,” he explained during the briefing.
Exploring Solar Panel Opportunities
With their sights set on sustainability, Lt. Col. Alves Dos Santos expressed a desire to explore the possibility of installing solar panels at these remote bases to generate much-needed electricity. This initiative aligns with the Brazilian Army’s interest in renewable energy as a means to enhance operational efficiency and reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.
Building Stronger Alliances
Ricky Tellstrom, the Huntsville Center’s metering and energy support services chief, highlighted the importance of building alliances through information sharing. He noted, “The Army is committed to enabling our installations to be more energy and water-efficient and resilient. Sharing best practices with allies like Brazil strengthens our relationships and ensures both countries have secure and sustainable energy supplies for our military forces.”
Redstone Arsenal: A Leader in Energy Efficiency
As the U.S. Army continues its journey toward energy efficiency goals, Redstone Arsenal exemplifies progress and innovation. The collaboration with Brazilian Army officers is just one step toward creating a greener future, proving that together, nations can tackle energy challenges and pave the way for more sustainable military operations.
This friendly exchange of ideas and practices fosters international relationships while ensuring a resilient energy supply for armed forces across the globe. Huntsville’s efforts in energy efficiency might just inspire similar initiatives back in Brazil, helping their military bases thrive in a modern and sustainable way.
