Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate Office of Mission and Capability Support (MCS) Maritime Safety and Security (MSS) Program is leading Research and Development and Test and Evaluation (RDT&E) on alternative energy to power maritime vessels to support and anticipate DHS components’ AE initiatives following the successes of the ground vehicle fleet. The Government-Only CE will be an interagency collaboration to discuss current limitations and to brainstorm ways to overcome these factors and discuss future innovation. The purpose of this Government-Only Collaboration Event (CE) is to identify needs and define requirements for an alternative energy source for maritime vessels for DHS mariners and customers. During this open forum, participants from government will ideate on specific challenge areas and develop potential paths forward with actionable plans for implementation.

As one of the projects selected for the Pilot Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Innovation Hub, DEFENSEWERX (DWX) is hosting a Government Only Collaboration Event (CE) to identify needs and define requirements for an alternative energy source for maritime vessels for DHS mariners and customers. The Government Only CE will be an interagency collaboration to discuss current limitations and to brainstorm ways to overcome these factors and discuss future innovation. During this open forum, participants from government will ideate on specific challenge areas and develop potential paths forward with actionable plans for implementation.

The MSS Program is interested in identifying current and emerging alternative energy (AE) high-reliability propulsion systems to enable DHS components to enforce maritime border security while transitioning to low and zero-emission vessels to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The transition from fossil fuel-based propulsion systems to AE solutions will align DHS with executive orders and directives across the U.S. government to reduce reliance on fossil fuel energy sources while maintaining mission capabilities to enforce international trade law, safeguard the maritime transportation system, maintain U.S. waterways and maritime resources, and interdict illegal activities in the maritime environment, such as smuggling and human trafficking.