Air Force saves money through energy-efficient lighting Published June 5, 2007 WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- With an energy efficiency commitment, Air Force officials pursue leading-edge technologies for energy efficient lighting as part of its energy strategy for the 21st century. The Air Force spends about $1 billion annually for the 77 trillion British thermal units of energy required to run more than 700 million square feet of facilities at 166 sites worldwide, with 20 percent of the cost for lighting. "The Air Force's innovation and energy conservation efforts have been successful for many years, from retrofitting inefficient hangar lighting with upgraded compact fluorescent lighting to replacing thousands of fixtures and installing wireless controlled ramp lighting," said William C. Anderson, the assistant secretary of the Air Force for installations, logistics and environment. Today, the Air Force continues its forward-looking pursuit of efficient lighting alternatives, integrating the use of compact fluorescents with daylight controls wherever possible. Compact fluorescent bulbs produce about one-fourth of the energy of incandescent bulbs, contributing to the fight against climate change. Bases such as Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., are leveraging light emanating device technology by installing LED airfield lighting, expected to reduce the energy load and maintenance requirements with projected savings of more than $600,000 annually. At Dyess AFB, Texas, hundreds of installed solar day lighting units use the power of the sun to light hangars and engine shops. Because of Dyess AFB's pioneering lighting initiative, many other Air Force and Army installations now are investing in the same units, with the Department of Energy's support. The Air Force is also studying the benefits of using compact fluorescent lights and LED technology for tent lighting in deployed locations. Possible benefits are reduced heat and increased safety. "When fully implemented across the Air Force, the execution of energy innovation can help to mitigate some of the significant resource constraints the Air Force faces and enhance Air Force safety, while at the same time serve as an energy model and leader for the Department of Defense and the United States," Mr. Anderson said. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) Click here to view the comments/letters page