Energy conservation is more important than you may think

  • Published
  • By John Muckey
  • 718th Civil Engineer Squadron
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Military forces will always be dependent on energy, but we must dramatically reduce the risk to national security associated with our current energy posture.

During the 2008 fiscal year, Kadena officials spent about $67.5 million of its operating budget for utility costs. This included $46.8 million for electricity, $16.3 million for water and $4.4 million for heating oil.

As the cost for crude oil escalated last summer, utility costs followed, and energy conservation has become an increasingly important national security consideration.

Just five percent savings in base-wide consumption would save more than $3 million per year. The savings could then be redirected toward supporting other mission requirements, operational needs, jobs and new equipment.

As the Americans observe Energy Awareness Month in October, think about what they can do help save energy at work and at home.

Some wise energy choices include:

Use fans and natural ventilation instead of air conditioning
Buy energy efficient Energy Star compliant appliances and home electronics equipment
Turn off exterior lights during daylight hours
Use energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs

All federal employees, military members and dependents are encouraged to adopt wise energy efficiency practices to help conserve the national energy supply and improve energy security.

The Air Force's vision is to make energy a consideration in everything we do and this year's energy awareness campaign theme is "Energy Solutions...Fueling the Mission."

If you see energy waste, eliminate it or report it to your facility/building/dormitory manager or the civil engineer customer service desk at 634-2424.

Throughout Energy Awareness Month there will be various events and activities to show how Team Kadena is "Fueling the Mission." One of the first events will be an energy awareness demonstration and video presentation at the Kadena commissary Oct. 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There will be give-away items promoting energy awareness and water conservation, so stop by to see what you can do to help Team Kadena save energy and become a Shogun Energy Warrior!