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Conflicts in Ukraine and Iran reveal the rise of AI-driven robotic warfare. Learn why mobile, off-grid nanogrids are essential for powering drones, UGVs, and autonomous defense systems.

In the Aerospace & Defense Technology podcast, Sesame Solar CEO Lauren Flanagan explains how mobile hydrogen-powered nanogrids extend drone endurance with on-site fuel production and off-grid resilience.

Sesame Solar is a 2026 SEAL Sustainable Innovation Award winner for Mobile Nanogrids—rapid-deploy off-grid power using solar, battery storage, and hydrogen.

Discover the difference between nanogrids and microgrids. Learn why nanogrids are ideal for fast, mobile, fossil fuel–free energy during emergencies, telecom outages, and defense operations.

We ask a lot of drones today, between monitoring for fires, delivering aid, securing borders or even rebuilding communications after disasters. Yet their biggest limitation remains the same: endurance. Most spend hours recharging or waiting for refueling. What if that changed? What if drones could keep flying as long as the mission required?

ERDC, in collaboration with Sesame Solar, has deployed a resilient off-grid energy node that combines solar, hydrogen, and battery storage to support Army readiness, research, and future operational needs.

As we look toward 2026, we’re excited to continue our momentum and commitment to innovating mobile power solutions. While 2025 presented macroeconomic challenges in the form of inflation, tariffs, and trade barriers, we progressed our technology with a steadfast determination that energy resilience from mobile power is a global imperative. And through this unwavering resolve, we developed new products and partnerships to make our Mobile Nanogrids smarter, more reliable, more powerful, and even more innovative.

The reDirect Foundation’s fellowship program partners with the Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability and Innovations (OSI) each year to connect University of Michigan students with opportunities for hands-on work with the city. This year’s fellows were three University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) students, all specializing in Behavior, Education and Communication (BEC).

Sesame Solar, based in Jackson, Michigan, is pioneering a new model for clean, mobile power. The company’s self-generating “nanogrids” — compact, solar- and hydrogen-powered units that deploy in minutes — are designed to deliver renewable electricity anywhere it’s needed. From emergency response and telecom operations to defense and community resilience, the technology provides an alternative to the diesel generators that have long powered temporary and remote sites.