Conservation is the word during Energy Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Christopher Marasky
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Did you know that Kadena Air Base's electricity bill was $45 million last year? Adding in gas and water, the base's total utility bill came to a whopping $66 million. That's not chump change.

October is Energy Awareness Month and 18th Wing officials continue to focus on ways to reduce Kadena's energy footprint. The theme for this year's campaign is "Working to secure a clean energy future" and is meant to encourage citizens to work together to make wise energy choices.

"Energy conservation is no longer just an environmental catch phrase," said Brig. Gen. Brett Williams, 18th Wing commander. "Rising energy costs affect our bottom line and ultimately our ability to execute the mission. Energy conservation has got to become a priority across our wing, both on the job and in our homes."

According to Gerardo Salazar, the 18th Wing energy manager, being stationed overseas presents a unique challenge to servicemembers because residents do not pay their own bills and do not know how much energy they are using.

One way people can help is to use this month to recommit to the maintenance of high-energy machines, such as refrigerators and dryers. Cleaning the coils and dust vents on these items helps the machines run more efficiently. Residents can also take basic steps to save energy -- turning off lights and appliances when not in use and keeping thermostats at 76 degrees during the hot months.

Kadena's goal to conserve energy stems from Executive Order 13423, which calls for a three percent annual reduction of energy consumption through the end of fiscal year 2015.

Although Kadena reduced its energy consumption by 1.4% from the same quarter last year, the base needs to reduce it further to accomplish the goal set by the order.

"If we all do our part to support the wing goal of reducing energy consumption, everyone reaps the rewards," said Mr. Salazar. "Not only will we be good stewards of the environment by minimizing our carbon foot print on the planet, but the money saved can be put towards the mission and quality of life improvements that benefit everyone on Kadena."