United States Air Force Infrastructure Energy Strategic Plan
Abstract
The case for action to reduce our energy consumption and diversify our energy sources is more compelling than ever. Military forces will always be dependent on energy, but we must dramatically reduce the risk to national security associated with our current energy posture. Energy prices fluctuate tremendously and the cost of crude oil crested near $150 per barrel in 2008. Major oil reserves are in countries or regions with governments or regimes that are at times unfriendly to U.S. and other Western interests. Our fragile energy infrastructure, such as the national electrical grid and the country's crude oil refining capacity, may hinder our ability to reliably deliver energy during times of crisis. Lastly, there is persuasive evidence that human activity is contributing to global warming. Together, these circumstances have awakened our nation, requiring a call for action that America is answering. Congress and the president have established mandates in law and executive orders. State governments are setting minimum "green" energy requirements for producers and consumers. Emerging technology and growing markets in renewable energy are diversifying our supply. It is within this context that the Air Force Infrastructure Energy Strategic Plan was developed. This plan explains why the Air Force needs an energy strategy, where the Air Force is headed with its strategy, and the difference an energy strategy will make as the Air Force prioritizes and allocates its resources. This strategic plan guides the Air Force toward higher energy efficiency by understanding the environment in which we operate. This environment includes several major statutory and policy mandates: ? Reduce facility energy intensity by 3 percent per annum ? Reduce base water use by 2 percent per annum ? Increase use of renewable energy at annual targets (3%, 5%, 7.5%, 25%) ? Reduce ground vehicle fossil fuel use by 2 percent per annum ?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA512202