Author Description

The Air Force must comply with Executive Order (E.O.) 13149: Greening the Government Through Federal Fleet and Transportation Efficiency. This order focuses on the reduction of petroleum consumption in an effort to reduce dependence on foreign oil and preserve the environment. Specifically, it directs federal agencies (such as the Air Force) to reduce fuel use in the vehicle fleet 20 percent between Fiscal Years (FY) 1999 and 2005. This thesis examines the Air Force's current alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) program and its evolution to determine how effective it is and how it should be adjusted to promote compliance with E.O. 13149. The results of this thesis look at steps that the Air Force should consider in an effort to increase the program's impact on petroleum consumption. Analysis shows that the Air Force is working to adopt new technology. However, the availability of such technology in a timely fashion may make it difficult for the Air Force to meet the 2005 goal. Additionally, in instances where the technology is currently available, alternative fuel and the appropriate refueling infrastructure frequently are not. Finding the financial resources to support these improvements would greatly improve the effectiveness of the Air Force's program.