Department of Defense Leverages Advanced 3D Fabrication for Energy Efficiency and Reduced Emissions at U.S. Army Facility

Strategic Insights -

Ameresco, Inc., a leading energy solutions provider, has announced a significant new project with the U.S. Army's Detroit Arsenal, a key facility in Warren, Michigan. This project, among the first within the Department of Defense to demonstrate the potential of 3D printing for large-scale energy efficiency upgrades, aims to improve building insulation and energy performance. The initiative is part of the Department of Defense's Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) and contributes to the Department of Defense's (DoD) broader sustainability and resilience goals.

Key Takeaways:

  • The project is the first within the Department of Defense to demonstrate the potential of 3D printing for large-scale energy efficiency upgrades.
  • The initiative aims to improve building insulation and energy performance through a state-of-the-art 3D fabrication process.
  • The project covers approximately 6,250 square feet of Detroit Arsenal's building envelope and is expected to improve energy efficiency by 50%.
  • The partnership with the U.S. Army is part of Ameresco's commitment to sustainability and decarbonization.
  • Branch Technology and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) are collaborating with Ameresco to design and install a custom-made, energy-efficient envelope over cladding system using Branch Technology's Cellular Fabrication (C-Fab[R]) process.
  • The project is expected to result in reduced energy costs and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The project is an innovative pilot project, and NREL will host a 300-square-foot mockup installation at their research facility in Colorado to evaluate energy savings and cost-effectiveness.

Statistics:

  • 6,250 square feet of Detroit Arsenal's building envelope will be covered by the project.
  • 50% improvement in energy efficiency is expected as a result of the project.
  • The projects aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs through advanced 3D fabrication.
  • 300-square-foot mockup installation will be hosted at NREL's research facility in Colorado to evaluate energy savings and cost-effectiveness.

Sources:

  • Ameresco, Inc.
  • U.S. Army's Detroit Arsenal
  • Department of Defense's Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP)
  • Branch Technology
  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)