Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Far East awarded a $1.4 million contract May 2 to install dual-technology occupancy sensors at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka Japan housing.

The sensors will be installed in common areas of 25 high-rise housing facilities at the Yokosuka naval base and nearby Ikego Housing Area.

"Installing occupancy sensors in the common areas of the towers is an excellent step towards reducing unnecessary energy usage at Yokosuka," said Cari Schroeder, Regional Energy program manager for Commander, Navy Region Japan. "Dual-technology sensors can reduce energy usage by 30 percent in the areas they are installed. Every year the Navy spends between $53,000 and $133,000 for electricity in each tower and these sensors are expected to make a major dent in that bill. By turning hallway lights off in the middle of the night when no one is around, the base can greatly reduce annual electricity usage without impacting anyone. The best time to save energy is when no one needs it, and this project is the perfect example."

Most occupancy sensors use either infrared or ultrasonic technology to detect movement and activate lighting. Dual-technology sensors combine both in order to increase accuracy. Infrared technology is activated by the difference in heat from a moving person compared to their surroundings. This technology can be falsely triggered by an HVAC system turning on. Ultrasonic sensors measure frequency changes of sound waves caused by a moving person. These can be falsely activated by, for example, movement of paper due to a breeze. Dual-technology sensors ensure lights turn on when needed-and only when needed, by requiring that both types of sensors be triggered.

As for areas not equipped with occupancy sensors? Schroeder says residents can play a big role in reducing energy costs. "If you need it, use it. If you don't, turn it off," she says.

The $1,374,212 contract was awarded to Mirait.t-Acty JV. Work is scheduled for completion in February 2019.


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