Tyndall outfits water, energy saving methods

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Reel
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Tyndall's 325th Civil Engineer Squadron implements water and energy saving methods in facility renovations, new construction projects, and ensures that Tyndall personnel practice habits that are environmentally friendly.

The 325th CES applies sustainable design principles into all of Tyndall's facility renovations and new construction projects, which includes energy efficient mechanical systems, lighting, increased insulation, as well as promoting energy awareness among Tyndall personnel.

"Energy and water conservation is a continuous process and has been a program Air Force-wide for many years," said Jonathan Caldwell, 325th CES Energy Manager. "All new construction and renovation projects install low-flow fixtures to reduce water consumption. We have also retrofitted most of our existing plumbing fixtures with low-flow fixtures."

The 325th CES continuously revises the base's irrigation schedules. This year the base turned off approximately 83 of 129 systems to cut water use and operation and maintenance costs.

"Since our base irrigation systems use potable water purchased from Bay County, we have turned off all systems that do not enhance base appearance or supply athletic fields," added Caldwell. "We also turn off all irrigation systems during the winter."

Tyndall benefits by reducing its water bill, which is ultimately paid by taxpayers, explained Caldwell.

The revisions not only save Tyndall approximately 11 million gallons of water per year, valued at$19,400, but they benefit the environment because Tyndall draws less water from Bay County's water resources.

"In addition to trying to consume less water, we try to preserve the natural water supplies on base," added Diane Bateman, 325th CES water programs manager. "At Tyndall, all of the facilities use processes that limit pollutants from reaching the water-runoff drains and local waterways. It is important to try to limit repercussions from human development on the local environment."

Additionally, there are current projects in the works that will help prevent shore erosion along Tyndall's coastline.

"We hope to be able to plant sea grass along the shores where wake and abrasive waters caused by watercraft and storms are most apparent," said Bateman. "The sea grass absorbs the rough currents and prevents the ground from being washed out. The grasses will also provide shelter for wildlife."

In addition to using low-flow fixtures in facilities, revising irrigation systems, and preserving the local environment, the 325th CES employs design principles to conserve energy and cut emissions.

Reducing the energy demand at Tyndall translates into fewer emissions from the power plant.

"New heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems must exceed minimum efficiency standards and we have implemented a metering system to help us understand where and how we consume our energy," said Caldwell. "We utilize an Energy Management and Control System that allows us to set and optimize facility temperature set points for comfort and energy saving. Since HVAC is one of the largest consumers of energy, an EMCS allows us to change set points during unoccupied periods to save energy. It also prevents HVAC systems from being set too cold or warm depending on the season."

Another beneficial aspect to reducing emissions is the use of efficient lighting systems that have been installed base-wide.

"Our hangars use some of the most efficient lighting on the market and we have fielded low-wattage lamps and occupancy sensors in numerous locations," he said.

From fiscal year 2010 to 2011, Tyndall cut electric and natural gas costs by approximately $830,000.

"By using technological advancements to lower the consumption of water, electricity, and other energy resources, as well as pursuing renewable energy opportunities where economically feasible, we can lower utility bills which benefits both the taxpayers and the environment," said Caldwell.