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Fairchild's energy savings make all the difference

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Lukas Morse
  • 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron installation management deputy chief
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  In fiscal year 2012 energy cost the Air Force more than $9 billion with aviation fuel accounting for more than 80 percent of energy used annually.

Fairchild has made many strides in conserving energy and savings.

Fairchild has success with polar over-flights fuel efficiency initiatives, changing flap setting angles during arrival, fuel load tailoring per mission, pre-mission computer programs such as Mission Index Flying and simulator training. The polar over-flights fuel efficiency initiatives alone have saved $2.3 million for fiscal year 2012.

Fairchild is also creating innovative ways to save water energy with future implementation of a smart irrigation system and new grounds contracts. In fiscal year 2012, eight energy projects were programmed that are estimated to save $487,000 on utility bills, 125 million gallons of water, and 34,000 MBTU of energy annually.

Fairchild was named the Reducing Energy Appreciation Program Award recipient, from 2009-2012. The award is presented for surpassing federally mandated energy and water conservation goals. Fairchild was also the first place winner for the 2012 Air Mobility Command Energy Incentive Award. This award recognizes the top bases and those in command for energy conservation and improvement.

There are many things Airmen can do to conserve energy. One way is carpooling or vanpooling. Switching out incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights or light-emitting diodes also saves energy. In the winter ensuring doors and windows are not leaking air and closing blinds and curtains will save heating energy. Finally researching and education on new techniques and technology coming out to the market is another way to contribute to savings.