Researchers at Missouri University of Science and Technology have received a $3.45 million grant from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to develop renewable energy technologies for advanced military installations.

The research focuses on ways to diversify fuel sources in order to reduce the dependence of air bases on fossil fuels and diesel generation. The investigators will look for ways to improve the efficiency of fuel cells and hydrogen production, decrease the size of fuel cells for mobility, and integrate wind and solar generation as part of a sustainable base microgrid.

“We are developing ways for the military to incorporate smart, renewable energy systems in order to efficiently power their efforts in the field,” says Dr. Mariesa Crow, the Fred W. Finley Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Missouri S&T and director of the university’s Energy Research and Development Center.

Missouri S&T faculty members involved include Crow; Dr. Fatih Dogan, professor of materials science and engineering; Dr. Frank Liou, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering; and Dr. K.B. Lee, professor of chemical and biological engineering.

Research on the projects sponsored by the AFRL is expected to be ongoing at Missouri S&T through July of 2012.