POWERING AIRPOWER: IS THE AIR FORCES ENERGY SECURE
Abstract
Energy is consumed at every level of warfare and is required for Air Force (AF) mission success. As adversaries seek more asymmetrical advantages against the United States and global climate change gives rise to more severe weather patterns, the security of AF energy is at an increasing level of risk. Adding to this problem, the infrastructure budget is not growing, making it more difficult to both meet energy-related mandates and improve energy resiliency. This paper evaluates energy security at the installation level and asks the question How can the Air Force improve energy source and infrastructure weaknesses to sustain future mission requirements? Energy consumption reduction, infrastructure upgrades, alternative onsite power generation and acquisition methods for these projects are part of this analysis. Focusing primarily on electrical energy, this paper will employ a problem/solution framework and propose a course of action to help set the AF on a path to correct its complex energy security problem. The final recommendation is to implement the right combination of consumption reduction, infrastructure upgrades and, primarily, alternative onsite power generation at AF installations. To achieve this the AF must reconsider how it prioritizes and funds energy-related projects to best meet the AF mission.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1041030
Entities
People
- Noah J. Fillian
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College