Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Far East is observing Energy Action Month during October.

The theme for 2017 is "Energy Action=Mission Success," underscoring the critical role that energy plays in the U.S. Navy's ability to execute its mission requirements.

"As the Navy's technical experts in bringing power and other utilities to naval shore installations, we are constantly improving our services and implementing new technological solutions which enhance mission readiness and quality of life for base residents," said Commanding Officer Capt. Michael Kenney.

In fiscal year 2017, NAVFAC Far East continued to improve installation energy resiliency. The command coordinated the ongoing maintenance of Defense Logistics Agency fuel oil tanks to meet U.S. 7th Fleet operational commitments. It also awarded wharf projects at Diego Garcia and Sasebo, Japan which will improve DLA operations and system reliability.

NAVFAC Far East supports the development of three energy-saving performance contracts which focus on energy efficiency at Navy and Marine Corps installations.

On board Fleet Activities Sasebo, the command is finalizing stage one of steam decentralization with a follow-on project to integrate an industrial control system with smart grid and cybersecurity elements. Bachelor Enlisted Quarters Bldg. 3333 on board Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, now has a network of advanced meters collecting electricity, water and steam consumption data. Armed with this consumption data, CFAY has achieved increased utility reliability by monitoring acceptable limits, minimizing cascading faults and improving restoration if utilities are lost.

The command purchased three electric vehicles which are now in use at Navy Region Center Singapore, with more planned for other installations in the Far East. Hundreds of light fixtures have been upgraded to cost-saving LEDs at Naval Air Facility Atsugi and NAF Misawa, Japan.

NAVFAC Far East employees are also committing to leading in energy and water conservation at home and in their workspaces. This month, command employees will take part in an energy stand-down. They will share best practices for reducing energy use, and inspect their work spaces for waste.

"This really needs to be a year-round focus," said Kenney, "but this month is a great opportunity to learn best practices and set habits that will contribute to the Navy's energy consumption reduction goals."

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