YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- October marks the President’s 2016 Energy Action Month observance. The goals of Energy Action Month are to increase awareness about energy consumption and to encourage energy-saving actions in Airmen, civilians, and their families.
According to Frank Kendall, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, all aspects of the Air Force mission depends on a reliable supply of energy, and using that energy smarter means flying our aircraft farther, transporting more cargo and accomplishing the mission in a more efficient and effective way.
Yokota’s own push for energy efficiency was recently recognized by the Association of Energy Engineers when they awarded the base for the 2016 Innovative Project of the Year.
Nearly two years ago, the base’s power plant made the switch from diesel fuel to natural gas, resulting in a savings of $7.3 million and 19.2 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over the course of one year.
“Although we as a base became more energy efficient with the switch to natural gas, there are still steps we can take as individuals to reduce energy cost,” said Mike Haka, 374th Civil Engineer Squadron energy and utilities manager.
Airmen face the challenge of protecting the power by looking for ways to save energy, water and other resources.
“We don’t want people to just be aware; we want people to do their part in being more energy efficient,” said Sundae Knight, 374th CES resource efficiency manager.
During the summer, Yokota held the ‘Defeat the Peak’ campaign, which lobbied the base populous to work to reduce their energy consumption levels, especially during peak hours. Yokota members followed suit, reducing the base’s peak energy usage during the summer months and saving over $240,000 in energy cost over the next year.
Energy Action Month serves as a reminder for Yokota members to continue doing their part in reducing their energy footprint. Listed below are small tips provided by 374 CES that can have a big impact on energy cost.
-
Turn off lights when not in use or when natural daylight is insufficient. Turn off power to computers, TVs and all electronic devices when not in use to avoid wasting standby power, which can account for as much as 10 percent of energy use.
-
Plug multiple devices into a power strip with a surge protector so you can turn them all off with the flip of one switch, while also protecting them from damage.
-
Use water wisely. Turn water off when not in use, such as while brushing teeth and shaving.
-
Turn the thermostat up or down by 2 degrees. Each degree that you lower the thermostat can reduce your heating costs by as much as three percent. Dress for the season, and use sweaters and extra blankets when it’s cool outside.
It is the responsibility of everyone in the Air Force be alert to the ways they use or possibly misuse energy. By taking an active role in reducing energy usage, everyone becomes part of the solution in using resources efficiently and effectively. As evidenced by Yokota’s award and energy cost savings, everyone’s efforts make a clear difference in the fight for energy efficiency.