Defense Management. Overarching Organizational Framework Needed to Guide and Oversee Energy Reduction Efforts for Military Operations

Abstract : The Department of Defense (DOD) relies heavily on petroleum-based fuel for mobility energy the energy required for moving and sustaining its forces and weapons platforms for military operations. Dependence on foreign oil, projected increases in worldwide demand, and rising oil costs, as well as the significant logistics burden associated with moving fuel on the battlefield, will likely require DOD to address its mobility energy demand. GAO was asked to (1) identify key efforts under way to reduce mobility energy demand and (2) assess the extent to which DOD has established an overarching organizational framework to guide and oversee these efforts. GAO reviewed DOD documents, policies, and studies, and interviewed agency officials. GAO is recommending that DOD establish an overarching organizational framework for mobility energy to improve the department's ability to guide and oversee mobility energy reduction efforts. To establish such a framework, DOD should designate an executive-level Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) official to be accountable for mobility energy matters, develop a comprehensive strategic plan, and improve DOD's business processes. In addition, the military services should designate executive-level focal points to establish effective communication and coordination among OSD and the military services. DOD partially concurred with the recommendations.