28 CES makes dorms energy efficient

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Abigail Klein
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  In an effort to aide with Air Combat Command's Energy Conservation Campaign, Ellsworth Airmen have instituted new measures within the dormitories here. These new measures serve as a step toward reaching the ACC's goal to reduce energy use 20 percent by the year 2020.

In the Borglum Hall Dormitory, the installation of energy-efficient, 60-watt compact fluorescent light bulbs, which use 75 percent less energy than traditional light bulbs and have a lifespan of up to 10 years, is one of the small steps that will help obtain the ACC's goal. Their installation serves as a segue to other energy reducing measures within the dormitories in the near future, said Dell Petersen, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron Base Energy manager.

The decision to place the new light bulbs in the dormitories was spearheaded by Master Sgt. Robert Carter, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron Asset Management flight superintendent, who came to Mr. Petersen asking what he and other 28 CES members could do to aid in reducing energy costs.

The estimated savings from the installation of the fluorescent light bulbs was also a great motivator to switch from traditional light bulbs.

"Based on the 800 bulbs we have replaced, we already estimate a $3,288 annual savings in Borglum Hall alone," Sergeant Carter said. "We have more than 2,000 bulbs on order for the remaining dormitories in the near future."

In addition to new light bulbs, energy efficient washers were added to the dormitories.

Replacing 70 conventional washers with washers conformed to ENERGY STAR® standards will help save an estimated $5,000 annually in energy costs for the dormitories, Sergeant Carter said.

The introduction of energy efficient light bulbs and washers is a first step toward other energy-reducing plans for the dormitories, Mr. Petersen said.

In the near future, Mr. Petersen has introduced the idea of installing occupancy light switches within Airmen's rooms. Unlike traditional light switches, occupancy light switches turn-on only after detecting a person's body heat. In addition, the use of window coatings would also help better insulate dormitory rooms during the winter, therefore lessening heating costs, he said.

"By taking these small steps, [Ellsworth] residents will see that they can also make a difference and contribute to the wing's energy conservation efforts," Sergeant Carter said. "This will hopefully establish the mindset for future Air Force leaders, now living in the dormitories, to continue energy conservation plans when they becomes NCOs and SNCOs."