42nd CES aims to make Maxwell more energy efficient

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Charles Welty
  • Air University Public Affairs
The 42nd Civil Engineer Squadron is currently working on a new energy savings initiative, which involves the conversion of all light fixtures on both Maxwell and Gunter to a more energy efficient alternative.
 
The team’s goal is to convert all fixtures to LEDs over the next eight to 10 years, projected to save nearly 3.3 million kilowatt hours (kWh) annually.
 
According to Energy.gov, LEDs are one of today’s most energy-efficient and rapidly-developing lighting technologies, using at least 75 percent less energy and lasting 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.
 
In order to make a significant impact right out of the gate, the 42nd CES began the installation of LEDs at the center of Air University, the library.
 
“We are excited to be the first organization to transition over to this new lighting system,” said Dr. Mehmed Ali, Air University Library director. “It’s great that there is now improved illumination in the building as well as seeing the university leading forward on promoting greener operations.”
 
While the installation of these lights in the library marked a significant milestone in the base’s energy savings program, it was just the start. Some of the team’s current and future projects can be found on the list below.
 
Current Projects (As of Jan. 2019)
-Replace High Pressure Sodium and Metal Halide lights with LEDs: 49% complete
-Replace High Pressure Sodium and Metal Halide lights on airfield with LEDs: 95% complete
-Replace interior lights with LEDs, Phase 1 – Scope: Retrofit 3000 fixtures with LEDs: 10% complete
-Replace interior lights with LEDs, multiple facilities – Scope: Retrofit 2100 fixtures with LED in multiple buildings: 10% complete
 
Future Projects
-Replace street and parking lot lights with LEDs - Working a project in conjunction with privatized electrical utility provider.
- (proposed for FY20) Replace interior lights with LEDs, multiple buildings, Phase 2.
-LED light replacement is also included in multiple facility renovation projects that are proposed for the next several FYs.