By Capt. Pat Rios
Director, CNIC Facilities and Environmental
In the last two years (Fiscal Years 2012-2013), the Navy invested more $900 million to make our shore facilities and utilities systems more energy efficient.
Based on these targeted investments, we expect to see an additional 9 percent reduction in our shore energy consumption by the end of Fiscal Year 2015.
New energy efficient lighting and windows are installed at Naval Surface Warfare Center Corona Building 519.
One example of this is the $91 million Naval Station Great Lakes steam decentralization plant project. The project recently completed final certification and acceptance of 125 natural gas fired boilers providing heat and hot water in 42 buildings. Once completed in November 2015, more than 120 buildings will be off the central steam system and save the Navy $7 million per year in utility costs and reduce overall energy consumption on the Naval Station Great Lakes by 40 percent.
This initiative also includes installation of direct digital control infrastructure, improving the ability to monitor system performance and ensuring continual, optimal performance. By implementing innovative ideas like these, we’ve found numerous ways to conserve, reroute and get the most out of the energy we produce.
Do you have a best energy management practice or idea? If so, send it to energy@cnichq.org.