DOE honors Dyess with energy award

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Damon Kasberg
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, was recently presented a Federal Energy Management Program award by the Department of Energy.

The award is presented to individuals and organizations with the federal government that significantly contribute to the efficient use of energy and water resources.

"This isn't something that we started last year," said Ronald Miller, 7th Contracting Squadron director of business operations. "We've always been a steward of the tax payer's money. As a team, we have always looked for ways to improve energy efficiency at Dyess."

The energy team at Dyess consisted of members from the 7th Civil Engineer Squadron and 7th Contracting Squadron.

The team undertook eight strategic measures to reduce energy intensity, cost and improve the base infrastructure.

Measures such as ceramic paint, smart control thermostats and sensors, micro-phonic sensors and demand reduction generators all contributed to a saving 5,351 tons of greenhouse gases, $1.8 million and 29 billion British Thermal Units for the 2011 fiscal year.

"It goes back to teamwork," said Eric Watson, recourse efficiency manager. "The goal that we were able to achieve as a team speaks for itself. It makes you feel like you have done your part in being a good steward to the tax payers, the base and the local community."

These measures not only reduce energy costs, but also benefit the environment.

"The less energy we use, the less that has to be produced, the less resources we use, the less pollution," said Tom Denslow, base energy manager.

The team also entered into a demand reduction agreement with the local utility company for the base to use generators when possible to reduce the load on the Texas power grid.

As one great year for the Dyess energy team passes, they continue to look forward.
"Working toward building a new ice plant that cools buildings during the day without air conditioning and building our own sustainable power plant on base are only a couple large projects for the future," Miller said.

Even though the Dyess energy team has been a major contributor in saving money and producing less greenhouse gases, Airmen and residents of Dyess can do their part too by turning off lights, water and air conditioners when they're not in use.