4th CES leads the way in energy

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shawna L. Keyes
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The 4th Civil Engineer Squadron was recently awarded the 2015 Federal Energy & Water Management award, which recognizes individuals and organizations for significant contributions to energy and water efficiency within the federal government.

The 4th CES began their journey back in 2014 by recognizing October as Energy Awareness Month and having awareness activities for members of Team Seymour of all ages. More than 500 personnel were briefed during that month on multiple ways to reduce the energy consumption in the work place as well as their homes.

"Energy awareness plays a key role in our conservative program," said 1st Lt. Joshua Jones, 4th CES programs officer. "Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is a proven leader, with an innovative approach to energy and environmental awareness."

During the last two years, the squadron has completed several heating, ventilation, and air conditioning upgrades, which saved the base more than $60,000 per year. Also, many of the street and parking lights have been upgraded with LED fixtures, which led to a savings of $143,000 annually.   

"During fiscal year 2014, we reduced energy consumption equal to removing roughly 3,000 cars from the road and reduced water consumption by 42 percent," said 2nd Lt. Mathew Nicholson, 4th CES energy manager.

The outreach system that flourished in October has since continued to evolve, and the squadron has even developed a simplified program to help teach children the importance of energy conservation. The program utilizes the mascot "e-BEAST", who is a symbol of energy conservation and environmental stewardship to everyone on base.

"The Seymour Johnson Air Force Base energy management office began with the desire to create continual exposure to positive energy awareness information," Jones said. "Presentations to the youth center helped simplify the message for everyone to easily digest. Airman e-BEAST is a favorite among the base children and leadership. He visited over 250 children and provided base personnel with energy awareness brochures, give-a-ways, and led fun activities to educate the youth."

With site visits, audits, automated system controls, project development, energy awareness and continuous education, the 4th CES has paved the way for continuous energy savings for SJAFB.

"The unique effort of focusing an energy conservation message with a fun twist has resulted in Seymour Johnson exceeding the energy and water conservation goals from year to year," Jones said. "Seymour Johnson leads the way!"