Energy conservation is everyone’s responsibility

  • Published
  • By 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Did you know the U.S. Air Force is the largest user of energy in the federal government? In 2007, the AF spent $7 billion on energy, with 81 percent of that was spent on jet fuel while $1 billion was spent to power Air Force bases. Here at Hurlburt, more than $9 million were spent on energy to power the installation last year.

Energy conservation makes sense for our energy security as saved energy can reduce our dependence on foreign energy and prevent the need for costly expenditures for energy infrastructure like power plants. Here are some simple ways for you to make a difference in the bottom line of energy costs:

1. Turn off lights when rooms are not occupied and at the end of the day. Use task lights instead of overhead lighting when feasible.

2. Set thermostats between 74-78 degrees in the summer and 65-68 degrees in the winter.

3. Turn off televisions, computer monitors, printers and copiers when they're are not in use. Unplug unnecessary or unused equipment.

4. Eliminate space heaters, refrigerators, coffee pots and microwave ovens from personal office spaces.

5. Replace incandescent bulbs with fluorescent bulbs. Ensure fluorescent bulbs are recycled at the end of their useful life.

6. Keep windows and doors closed while the air conditioner is in use. Address comfort issues at the thermostat, not at the window. Call the 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Service at 844-6683/6684 to report problems with building heating and cooling on base.

The federal goal for energy reduction, mandated by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, is a 3 percent reduction per year from a fiscal year 2003 baseline. This means the fiscal year 2008 goal was a 9 percent reduction. Unfortunately, Hurlburt did not meet that goal, and the fiscal year 2009 goal is an even more aggressive 12 percent reduction from the baseline. If you have any suggestions for energy conservation at Hurlburt, please contact the Asset Management Flight at 844-7924. Together we can all make a difference in energy usage.