Factors That Influence Human Behavior And Negatively Affect Energy Consumption In USMC Ground Units During Operations

Abstract

The energy required to employ todays technologies on the battlefield is a logistical burden and a potential vulnerability. The thirst for energy is jeopardizing the self-sufficiency and security of the deployed warfighter. Improvements to equipment and the employment of renewable energy systems fail to address the impact that human behavior has on energy consumption and overlooks a tremendous opportunity. The Marine Corps return to its expeditionary posture as a fast, austere and lethal force requires that it come to terms with energy consumption. The data and analysis presented in this thesis identifies behavioral trends and indicates that significant energy savings can be obtained through a concerted effort and behavior-change strategy that includes training and education, policy and planning, leadership and communication to improve individual and organizational awareness of the importance of efficient and effective use of energy. In particular, opportunities are available for significant improvement in the use and employment of generators, environmental control units and vehicles. Energy-related behavior changes within the operational environment can have a positive impact in several areas to include improved energy security, greater self-sufficiency, increased operational reach and fewer casualties from force protection of fuel resupply convoys.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 2016
Accession Number
AD1029902

Entities

People

  • John A Peters

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Ground and Sea Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Climate Change Adaptation
  • Education
  • Electric Power
  • Employment
  • Energy Conservation
  • Energy Consumption
  • Energy Security
  • Force Protection
  • Generators
  • Human Behavior
  • Management Personnel
  • Military Science
  • Organizational Structure
  • Renewable Energy
  • Systems Engineering
  • Training
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Economics
  • Maritime Combat Support and Expeditionary Logistics.