Civil engineers set Air Force pace in energy conservation Published Jan. 23, 2008 By Capt. Jessica Martin Nellis AFB Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The 99th Civil Engineer Squadron has received the first-ever Best in Air Force Energy Conservation Award for their initiatives in 2007. The award recognizes outstanding contributions to military engineering through achievement in design, construction, administration, research and development. Units were assessed in six categories--innovative new technology, environmental or non-energy benefits, energy or water savings, overall cost savings, institutionalization and transferability of program, and results. Covering all of these aspects, the 140-acre solar photovoltaic array in Area III will provide the base with 30 percent of its electric needs at a fraction of the cost of nonrenewable energy sources. "Although this is likely 99th CES' most well-known project, it is one of several energy conservation initiatives we're working on," said Michelle Price, 99th CES base energy manager. "The Nellis Energy Program is a three-pronged attack focused on developing new renewable energy projects and improving the base infrastructure, changing base operations to "lean" energy use wherever possible, and creating a marketing program to develop individual support of the base program," she said. In an effort to change base operations, the 99th CES spearheaded creation of the Energy Management Steering Group, which includes leadership from the U.S. Air Force Warfare Center and four wings. The steering group approved a progressive energy policy to maintain energy accountability and brainstorm energy-saving initiatives, which resulted in savings of $1.3 million in the first year. In order to develop program recognition, the 99th CES crafted the "Turn It Off" marketing campaign fostering individual conservation, where all Nellis and Creech members are called upon to join in energy-saving measures. Personnel are directed to turn off all computers, printers, monitors, and personal electronic devices at the end of each duty day. Computers should only be left on to receive patches and downloads as directed by the 99th Communications Squadron, Network Control Center. Other actions include turning off lights when areas are unoccupied during the day, even for short periods of time. This program yielded savings of 1.3 million kilowatt hours in the first month of implementation, and first-year savings of more than $250,000. "Following these initiatives can help all of us be good stewards of the taxpayers' money, and ensure the base will have the funds necessary to complete the mission," Ms. Price said. For questions or concerns regarding the energy conservation policy, e-mail 99CES.BEM@Nellis.af.mil.
