Feature Story

Energy Conservation an Air Force Priority

It can be as simple as closing a door or turning off a computer monitor. Or it can be big things like a new geothermal heating and cooling system. Increasingly, the Air Force is counting on its most prized asset - its people - to work on conserving another valuable commodity - energy.

"Energy is a critical part of everything we do in the Air Force and across DOD," Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley said in an August presentation at the National Clean Energy Summit in Las Vegas. Reducing energy demand and increasing energy supply sources are vital areas as the department looks to identify efficiencies and expand capabilities, Donley said.

A variety of programs at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich., are helping the Air Force to reduce energy usage and costs. 

Energy - be it electricity in our buildings or jet fuel in our aircraft -- is a critical component of all Air Force operations and having assured access to energy is a strategic advantage," said Col. Michael T. Thomas, 127th Wing commander at Selfridge. "Everyone in the Air Force, from Airmen to civilians to contractors, can play a key role in achieving our energy goals by making energy a consideration in all that we do."

Related Articles

Environmental Commitment

127th Wing Environmental Commitment Statement

In order to assure that environmental considerations are major factors in decision-making, the Selfridge ANG Base community is committed to the following:

Continual Improvement.  We will continuously improve our work processes through assessment of our environmental and energy reduction aspects and related impacts.

Achieve Objectives. We will fulfill or exceed our environmental and energy conservation/reduction objectives while maintaining operational readiness.

Reduce Pollution.  Wherever feasible, we will minimize the use of hazardous materials and release of pollutants, while encouraging recycling & energy conservation.

Ensure Compliance.  We will maintain compliance with all applicable federal, state, local regulations, and other requirements to which the organization subscribes.

Through continued emphasis on being good stewards of the environment in which we share with the local community, we prove that we are good neighbors and citizens within the Southeast Michigan area.  

2016 Selfridge Environmental Assessment Statement

Environmental restoration

Energy & Environment

The Department of Defense, Air Force and National Guard Bureau have created new initiatives to conserve energy and the environment. The 127th Wing is committed to following federal, state and local guidance; using energy and resources in the most cost-effective, efficient ways possible; and continuing to find new ways to "go green." The efforts are ongoing, and goal is to make Selfridge Air National Guard Base an energy-saving, environmentally conscious model for other bases.