Shining Light on Energy Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Robin Liggett
  • 354th Civil Engineer Squadron
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  The Federal Government first initiated American Energy Week in 1981 to begin raising awareness; it was extended to a month-long observance for the Department of Energy in 1986. On September 13, 1991, President George Bush proclaimed October as the Energy Awareness Month and DOE conducted aggressive campaigns to promote the wise and efficient use of our nation's energy.

President Barack Obama recently proclaimed October as National Energy Awareness Month to shine new light on energy conservation activities. President Obama stated, "During National Energy Awareness Month, we recognize the contributions of individuals, organizations, and companies that are committed to advancing energy innovation and efficiency, and we promote the importance of a clean energy economy to our Nation."

Across the country, Federal agencies continue to zero in on energy targets that will stimulate the economy, lower operating expenses, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and achieve long-term energy and economic security. That's why the theme for Energy Awareness Month 2010 is: "POWERING AMERICA -- We're on target."

The Federal government is leading by example and pointing the way toward energy security and renewed economic prosperity. Eielson Icemen will have plenty of opportunity throughout October to practice and promote energy conservation.

All dormitories will compete against one another to see who can reduce their energy consumption the most in just one month. To all the dorm-residing Airmen ready for a challenge: turn off lights and the TV; unplug cell phone chargers and the radio; and shut down computers when not in use.

The 354 Civil Engineering Squadron Energy team is going to school. Crawford Elementary students will enjoy a "Where does energy come from?" presentation and interactive lesson. A competition amongst the classes will reward some lucky students a field trip to the Central Heat and Power Plant. Ben Eielson High School seniors will also attend an assembly and learn about "The consumption of energy." Students may also participate in a poster contest with the chance to win gift cards to local stores.

The 354 CES and the BX are teaming up to host an Energy Awareness event on 20-21 October. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. there will be booths with informational material, free giveaways and live demonstrations. Come by and see how much energy we waste accidentally on a daily basis and learn how we can make a purposeful difference. Remember that simple actions every day add up to big results.

From the President of the United States of America and our federal government to you, we are all doing our part to become a little more energy conscious every day. Air Force Chief of Staff, General Norton Schwartz stated, "[W]e cannot overstate the criticality of every Airman embracing energy as a consideration in all we do." Think Green, Build Green, Fly Blue.