Yokota saves resources, launches No Heat/No Cool

  • Published
  • 374th Airlift Wing/Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Yokota Air Base began its semiannual No Heat/No Cool period March 11, 2013.

The program, conducted each spring and fall, allows Airmen with the 374th Civil Engineer Squadron to maintain Yokota's heating, ventilation and air conditioning infrastructure by allowing for routine, preventative maintenance.

The program also provides the base an opportunity to conserve energy and save money.

"We looked at the upcoming weather, ran the numbers, and identified a great opportunity to secure some real savings for Yokota," said Col. Mark August, 374th Airlift Wing commander. "Every day of No Heat/No Cool saves us about $36,500 which we can put towards programs to take care of our people and continue the mission."

Last fall, implementing No Heat/No Cool saved approximately $440,000, said Mike Haka, 374 CES energy manager.

"Fuel oil for heating is the largest component of our utility bill and some of the biggest opportunities for energy conservation are found during the early spring," said Christopher Cook, 374 CES electrical engineer.

In keeping with No Heat/No Cool, August addressed the wing's servicemembers and civilians during two commander's calls March 12, during which he challenged listeners to find creative ways to preserve Air Force resources.

"Protect, preserve and consume government resources as if they were your own," he said.

Some ways Yokota residents can minimize energy consumption include reducing the use of lighting, unplugging unused appliances and using windows and blinds to help regulate room temperature.

Additionally, the wing has stood up an energy management working group to brainstorm other, more substantial ways Yokota members can conserve resources, August said. The group's results should be coming soon.