Fifty years of transition How the U.S. military transformed its estates energy strategy

This article explores the U.S. military’s decades-long transformation in energy use, tracing its evolution from heavy dependence on fossil fuels to a growing embrace of renewable energy. It examines how energy policy within military estates has shifted in response to climate change, energy security concerns, and geopolitical pressures. While renewable energy promises sustainability and resilience, it also introduces new vulnerabilities—such as cyber threats, supply chain risks, and technological limitations. Through the lens of the U.S. military, the article investigates the complex balance between operational readiness and environmental responsibility, offering insight into the broader implications for national and global energy security.