US Army Tests Hydrogen Equipment at National Guard Base
Washington D.C., Tuesday, 1 April 2025.
The US Army is testing hydrogen-powered gear at an Illinois National Guard site, enhancing energy reliability and eco-friendliness. It’s a key move towards cleaner, sustainable military operations.
Groundbreaking Demonstration
I’m excited to report that just yesterday, on March 31, 2025, the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center’s Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (ERDC-CERL) showcased a hydrogen-powered fuel cell forklift at the North Riverside Illinois Army National Guard site [1]. This isn’t just any ordinary equipment test - it’s a glimpse into the future of military operations, where clean energy meets practical functionality.
Practical Benefits
The results are already impressive. Facility manager Al Colon points out that the hydrogen-powered forklift matches standard forklift capabilities while offering two significant advantages: faster fueling compared to electric alternatives and zero exhaust emissions [1]. The installation, which hosts up to 900 additional Guard members during weekend drills, will particularly benefit from this reliable and clean energy solution [1].
Strategic Partnership
The initiative stems from a strategic collaboration between ERDC-CERL and GTI Energy, with the latter developing hydrogen systems at their Des Plaines, Illinois research facility [1]. ‘We are excited to partner with ERDC-CERL on this program’s first phase and contribute to the DoD’s efforts to enhance energy reliability for critical missions,’ says Susan Stuver, Director of Defense Energy at GTI Energy [1].
Future Implications
Project manager Carol Bailey emphasizes that this demonstration is just the beginning, highlighting how hydrogen power offers a silent, renewable fuel source adaptable to installations worldwide [1]. The research program aims to create a replicable framework for resilient energy systems across DoD installations nationwide [1]. Looking ahead, the team plans to use insights from this testing phase to design and install a prototype system at the North Riverside site, further enhancing its energy resilience [1].