Energy reduction is everyone's responsibility

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Melissa K. Mekpongsatorn
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Imagine receiving a daily utility bill for $11,500. That is about how much t it cost to power Moody for just one day.

October is Energy Awareness Month across the federal government and Robert Montgomery, 23rd Wing energy manager, is encouraging Team Moody to help lower the base's bill.

"Most people don't think about energy conservation until they receive the bill," said Montgomery. "We are looking at every way possible to reduce energy use."

This year's goal is to reduce energy consumption by 21 percent, that is 3 percent more than last year. With this reduction, the Air Force would save approximately $400,000.

To help reach this goal Moody is launching a quarterly award program to recognize facilities that reduce their electrical consumption by the greatest amount. The award will be divided among the top three energy reducers, with first place receiving a "traveling" recognition plaque and $1,500, second place winners will receive $750 and third place winners will receive $250.

"All facilities, no matter the size, will be placed on a level playing field by converting energy use to British thermal units per square foot, making the competition valid regardless of building size or type," said Montgomery

Use energy awareness month to take ACTION.
A-C-T-I-O-N stands for:
· appliance reduction
· computer log-off
· temperature set-points
· inform facility managers
· outdoor conservation
· no waste.

"Everyone logging off their computers would save approximately $140,000 a year," said Montgomery.

The Air Force's goal is to make energy a consideration in all we do. Moody has already taken several steps to reduce energy use, such as installing daylight controls and motion sensor lights in some offices and putting capacitors in the large air conditioning units on base, but there is always more that can be done.

"We need the help of everyone on base. Simple things can be done to reduce energy, such as setting your thermostat for 68 degrees in the winter and 76 degrees in the summer," said Montgomery. "If you find something in your facility that needs to be looked at or you have ideas to conserve energy, get in contact with your facility manager."

On Oct. 18, there will be a display at the Exchange with energy reduction tips and information. Remember, energy awareness is everyone's responsibility.