D-M continues energy conservation

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DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The 355th Fighter Wing was recently recognized with the FY 08 Air Combat Command Facilities Energy Award.

In addition to shining the spotlight on conservation efforts across Davis Monthan, the award also carries extra funding for continued energy conservation work. This ACC energy program rewards bases for meeting and exceeding energy conservation goals set forth by Congress and the President and for energy conservation improvements from year-to-year, according to the 355th Civil Engineer Squadron's Deputy Civil Engineer Mike Toriello.

"This past year, CE actively pursued many energy conservation projects," he said, adding that the heating and cooling of numerous base buildings was made more efficient through upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning controls.

Another innovative project recently undertaken provides hot water for the showers and pool at the Benko Fitness Center, according to Mr. Toriello,

"This project uses high-efficiency water-source heat pumps to offset natural gas water heaters, and is expected to save Davis-Monthan AFB over $100,000 per year in natural gas costs. And, within the next few months, the Aquatic Center pool will be heated using solar energy," Mr. Toriello explained.

LED lighting projects are also leading the way in energy conservation," according to Mr. Toriello, who said that LED traffic lights are more efficient than incandescent traffic lights because LEDs use about 90% less power than incandescents.

"All base traffic lights have been upgraded from incandescent to LED, and the 355th [Aircraft Maintenance Squadron] contributed by retrofitting their building with LED tubes that replaced fluorescent lights," Mr. Toriello said. "Future projects will include LED lighting in parking lots, offices, and building displays."

Other conservation efforts include waterless urinals, which not only save water but also save the energy required to pump that water, he added, noting that electricity and water conservation projects have also helped to increase the efficiency of facilities here. But ultimately, Airmen play the biggest part in making conservation efforts successful.

"The greatest impact has come from all the energy conscious airmen and civilians at DM. Turning off unnecessary lights, turning off computers at the end of the work day, and using water wisely have made a huge impact on our energy use," Mr. Toriello said.

Please contact the DM Energy Team at DMEnergy@dm.af.mil for questions and to let us know the things your team has done to help conserve energy and water. Let's go after the next Facilities Energy Award!