October is Energy Action Month

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kristin High
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Nationwide, October is Energy Action Month. The month is used to highlight the importance of the energy used in day-to-day living, as well as ways to reduce the energy that is wasted.

Why is it important to conserve energy?

"In fiscal year 2013, Barksdale spent more than $7 million on utilities, including electricity, sewage, water and gas," said David Sanders, 2nd Civil Engineer Squadron base energy manager. "$5.6 million alone was spent on electricity."

In many ways, the amount of energy that is used can be reduced by slightly changing daily routines.

"We can avoid wasted energy by turning off lights in unoccupied areas such as break rooms and bathrooms," said Sanders. "Turning off office equipment such as printers, fax machines, and copiers at the end of the day would also be beneficial. It's a great way to avoid excessive energy usage."

Report leaky piping, hose bibs, faucets and toilets to building managers for repairs, he added. In addition to saving water, this could lessen water or moisture damage to your facilities.

The Air Force mission is to fly, fight and win in air space and cyberspace. Today, energy remains a critical enabler of air superiority, rapid global mobility, and operational security at home and abroad.

According to the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force Installation, Environment and Logistics office, the Air Force is the largest consumer of energy in the federal government and spent $9.2 billion for electricity and fuel last year alone.

To help alleviate the waste, the Air Force is promoting mission-compatible renewable sources of energy through solar, wind and geothermal projects; testing and certifying its fleet to fly on alternative fuels; and implementing energy efficiencies and new technologies to provide greater support to the warfighter and enhance combat capability.

"It is important that we are aware of our energy consumption and take the appropriate actions to conserve," said Sanders. "Our actions today could help preserve valuable resources for future generations."

(Information for article was provided courtesy of Assistant Secretary of the Air Force Installation, Environment and Logistics office)