Because of the high cost associated with bringing fuel to remote bases, the military is willing to pay more for renewable technologies than firms in the private sector, allowing for the purchase of the most cutting edge technologies.
This solar array from Israel's Essence Solar Solutions uses germanium instead of traditional silicon cells and also employs lenses to concentrate the sun's rays.
The result is a system that's twice as powerful as a traditional solar setup.
"If you have the military accepting this as a viable technology, I believe it will gain acceptance in the broader market as well," said Essence executive Ron Helfan.
A device like the one seen here could provide enough power for 10 to 12 troops in a remote base.
Minimizing the armed forces' dependence on oil saves soldiers' lives and is a lifeline like no other for the green energy industry.
