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NEWS | Oct. 14, 2014

Energy Action Month fosters greener JBA

By Airman 1st Class J.D. Maidens 11th Wing Public Affairs

October is Energy Action Month at Joint Base Andrews, Md.

The "I am Air Force Energy" program is aimed at raising awareness of individual Airmen and JBA families' energy consumption and their role in energy conservation.

"We want to make people aware of base energy consumption and change the culture of energy use," said Capt. Joseph Birkhold, 11th Civil Engineer Squadron chief of portfolio optimization. "The base population's energy consumption plays a significant role in mission capabilities."

The program is hosting an Awareness Day event in the Jones building, Oct. 22.

"Our hope is to educate people about energy consumption and give them tips about reducing their utility usage at home," said Birkhold. "Anyone who is curious about energy conservation is invited to come."

Since 2003, Energy Action Month has helped reduce the intensity of energy use on JBA by 55%.

"The predicted energy use in 2014 will be the same or less than the use in 2013," said Mohammed Alikhani, 11th CES base energy manager. "However, the cost will rise because of increasing rates from energy providers."

The money saved from these programs is reinvested in upgrades to energy conservation systems and renewable energy sources.

"Energy conservation is a priority for the Air Force," said Birkhold. "Doing the little things and saving utilities goes a long way in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and creating clean energy sources."

For more information regarding Energy Action Month and tips on energy conservation, call (301) 981-5151 or visit http://www.safie.hq.af.mil/energy/index.asp .
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