October is National Energy Awareness and Action Month. (Courtesy graphic)
Santiago Hernandez
Directorate of Public Works
U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii
October is the army’s Energy Awareness month. The U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii commander asks that all units, Soldiers, family members, and civilian workforce take an opportunity to reflect on their current energy practices and set reduction and efficiency goals for the upcoming fiscal year.
Historically, much of the increase in energy spikes is due to wasteful habits. Everyone can help and reduce this unneeded trend.
In order to help reduce energy consumption, please follow USAG-HI’s no cost to low-cost energy tips:
All can turn off lights during daylight. (Courtesy photo)
- Close all windows and doors for air conditioned spaces. Set thermostats to 74 degrees Fahrenheit for cooled areas (USAG-HI standard).
- Turn off window A/C units in unoccupied rooms. Each unit can cost the Army up to $2,400 for year-round use.
- Turn off lights and HVAC units (window A/C units included) when not in use, particularly during weeknights, weekends, deployments, and holidays. Aircraft Hangar lights are included.
- Unit arms room exterior lights should be on at night; however, turn them off during the day.
- Minimize the number of refrigerators and coffee pots – consolidate usage.
All offices should turn lights off when they leave for the day. (Courtesy photo)
- Turn off all office and shop equipment – printers, copiers, computers, battery chargers, and shredders at the end of the day -- and during work hours when practical.
- Consolidate rear detachments (personnel administrative areas, work areas, etc.) into as few buildings as possible. Use the least amount of living and work space when possible.
- Practice full load washing and drying. Turn off utility lights when not in use.
- Ensure surrounding grounds are watered between the hours of 5 p.m. to 9 a.m., i.e., only water during hours of limited visibility. Sprinklers should be limited to 15 minutes of watering and directed only at green space.
- Submit work orders for broken doors or glass, non-functioning AC controls and equipment, broken light timers/sensors and leaking water fixtures.
- When practical consolidate trips – carpool. Walk or ride a bike when practical.
- Shut off vehicles when not in use (GSA TMP/NTV and Tactical Vehicles are included).
- Additional tips can be located online at https://www.hawaiianelectric.com/save-energy-and-money/household-tips-and-resources.
Waste and abuse should not be tolerated and reported to the DPW help desk: 808-656-1275; the DPW energy conservation manager: 808-656-3289 (office); or 808-864-1079 (cell). Energy theft should immediately be reported to the Military Police.
Everyone is responsible of conserving energy. Please pass the word along and start saving energy today. It is easy to join the movement. Just turn it off when not in use!