'I am Air Force Energy' campaign kicks off

  • Published
  • By Jennifer McCabe
  • AFCEC Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  October, Energy Action Month, provides an opportunity for Airmen to learn about energy's impact to the Air Force mission as part of a national campaign led by the Department of Energy. The theme, "I am Air Force Energy," puts Airmen at the center of the campaign.

More efficient flight descent procedures, new ways of loading cargo, vehicle idle time reduction and controlling temperature set points in facilities are just a few of the ways Airmen are helping the Air Force achieve energy goals in support of the mission.

Activities during the month include on base energy days, training, facility-versus-facility energy competitions and articles distributed via Air Force websites.

Every effort to save energy can make a difference, especially when the annual bill is $9.2 billion.

"In fiscal 2012, the Air Force saved more than $1.5 billion with smarter buildings, new technologies and more efficient flight operations," said Acting Secretary of the Air Force Eric Fanning.

"Every gallon of fuel and watt of electricity we save allows us to have more resources to meet other Air Force priorities," said Kathleen Ferguson, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment and Logistics.

You can help by taking ACTION.

Appliance reduction. Look around your workspace. How many personal appliances can be removed or consolidated in common areas like break rooms?

Computer log off. Personnel at many installations are advised not to turn off computers at the end of the day, but it's important to log off. This ensures computers enter energy-saving sleep mode. Before you pull your common access card and go home for the day, remember to log off. The Air Force IT Power Management Team at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., estimates this action alone could save more than $10 million a year.

Temperature control. Most bases have set-point policies and use settings of 68 degrees in the winter and 78 degrees in the summer. Rather than increasing energy demand with space heaters or fans, dress appropriately for the temperature in your facility.

Inform your facility manager. Report incorrect temperature set points, leaky faucets, blocked air vents, cracked windows and other problems to your facility manager or civil engineer customer service.

Outdoor conservation. If you notice a broken sprinkler wasting water or area lights left on in a parking lot during the day, report it to your local civil engineer customer service.

No waste. If you see something than doesn't need to be on, turn it off. If you see a problem, report it.

Every Airman -- military, civilian and contractor -- is encouraged to take energy awareness training on the AFCEC Advanced Distance Learning System at https://afcesa.csd.disa.mil.