October is Energy Action Month

  • Published
  • By David P. Wong
  • 66th Air Base Group Civil Engineering
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  October is Energy Action Month across the Air Force. Energy is a part of everything we do and we each have a role in ensuring the Air Force meets its energy goals in order to fly, fight, and win in air, space and cyberspace.

Energy Action Month is a time for us all to think about how energy impacts our daily lives, the lives of our families, and our ability to accomplish our mission. This year's theme, "I am Air Force Energy," puts Airmen at the center of the campaign.

"In fiscal year 2012, the Air Force saved more than $1.5 billion through smarter buildings, new technologies, and more efficient flight operations," said Acting Secretary of the Air Force Eric Fanning. "The smart use of energy means flying our aircraft farther, transporting more cargo, and accomplishing our mission in a more efficient and effective way."

The Air Force spent $9.2 billion on energy in fiscal year 2012.

"Every gallon of fuel and watt of electricity we save allows us to have more resources to meet other Air Force priorities," said Kathleen Ferguson, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment, and Logistics.

To help in that effort, Civil Engineering will be holding a number of energy activities throughout the month. A Home Energy Expo will be scheduled later this month. Attendees will have the chance to test drive an electric vehicle and talk with more than a dozen residential energy efficiency companies that specialize in wind and solar power, ground source heat pumps, water conservation, alternative heat sources, green construction and HVAC. An "Energy Hog" competition is scheduled Oct. 14 through 18.

We will also be providing periodic energy tips and updates on efforts across the Air Force. Please visit http://www.safie.hq.af.mil/energy/ for more information on how you can get involved and help the Air Force achieve an assured energy advantage in air, space, and cyberspace.

We are Air Force Energy!