Energy conservation begins with each of us Published Aug. 28, 2008 By Col. Steven Harrison 436 AW commander DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Beginning in 2006, President Bush mandated all federal agencies begin reducing their energy usage by three percent annually. That percentage is cumulative, meaning that, for 2008, Dover AFB energy usage must be nine percent below 2006 levels ... and beginning in Oct. 2009 we will have to use 12 percent less than in 2006. If we fail to achieve those goals, Dover must pay the difference between "mandated" and "actual" energy usage out of hide, resulting in reduced funds for our mission-essential needs and quality-of-life projects. These are tough mandates, and it's going to take a team effort to succeed. We are pursuing or implementing a variety of proposals ... everything from installing solar energy panels, to upgrading to more efficient lighting and heating systems, to installing meters and remote tracking software that will enable us to see where the energy is going and target accordingly. But none of our initiatives is more important, effective or immediate than simply growing energy awareness among Team Dover members. Large-scale projects, such as installing solar energy and decommissioning our legacy heat plant, will pay long-term dividends for the base. However, they require significant investments in time and money, and therefore will do little to improve our energy consumption in the near-term. The best way for Dover AFB to reduce energy consumption now is for every member of Team Dover to make it a priority. Each of us can take small steps every day to conserve energy if we take ownership of our work centers. Turn off the lights if you're the last one to leave a room, turn off your computer peripherals when you leave for the day, close windows while the air conditioner or heater is running, and take the responsibility to encourage others to do so as well. These small efforts, when added up across the base, will result in noticeable energy savings. We've been spoiled by cheap energy for a long while, so it's going to take some cultural adjustment from all of us ... but it's the right thing to do for our taxpayers, our Air Force and our planet. I know Team Dover is up to the challenge, because I've proudly watched another cultural change occur as our incredible enlisted corps has steadfastly focused our team on safety and responsible conduct one Airmen at a time...and it is paying off. With the final weekend of the 101 Critical Days of Summer upon us, Team Dover has so far had a very safe summer. Please stay safe and smart this Labor Day weekend--if you are on a motorcycle, wear your protective equipment; if you are driving long distances, get rested first and travel with a wingman; and above all, avoid drinking and driving at all costs. You and your families make tremendous sacrifices for our nation, and we all deserve to enjoy the freedom that our military assures if at all possible this weekend ... please don't sacrifice it all to a fleeting immature decision. Safely enjoying the Delaware summer ... one more great reason to be part of America's Preeminent Expeditionary Airlift Team!