A micro-grid power management system to reduce fuel consumption at military forward operating bases has been launched by Eaton.

The Pennsylvania-headquartered company said its Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System cut fuel consumption by more than 30 percent during initial testing at a U.S. military base by transforming generators operating independently into a micro-grid managed system.

"The success of Army missions and the security of our soldiers are dependent on reliable access to energy and water," Katherine Hammack, assistant secretary of the Army, Installations, Energy and Environment, has said, and the service is seeking energy alternatives and new resource management methods.

Eaton said system for managing generator output is designed to provide adequate power to meet current demand rather than inefficiently engaging all generators at all times. It also prevents grid collapse caused by generator fault by shifting demand onto supporting generators for a reliable supply of power.

The Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System is compatible with leading brands of generators and can be integrated with renewable energy systems, such as solar power.

"Reducing energy demand is a critical priority for the military with the potential not only to save revenue but to enhance the safety of our troops," said John Stampfel, Eaton's vice president and general manager, Electrical Engineering Services and Systems Division. "By increasing the efficiency of onsite power Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System can help limit the risks that troops face as they use, transport and store fuel."