Airmen reduce energy use in competition Published Dec. 14, 2012 By Kirtland AFB Resource Efficiency Manager KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- The final results of the October Dormitory Energy Competition are in. The Pararescuemen and 58th Training Squadron personnel living in building 20351 won first place by reducing their energy consumption by 20 percent. Residents in all four dormitories competed to achieve the greatest reductions in energy consumption during October, Energy Action Month. Overall, energy consumption in the four dormitories, 20221, 20222, 20351 and 20352 was 15 percent lower in October 2012 than in October 2011. Dormitory residents were challenged to reduce energy waste without compromising their comfort. They were provided with energy saving tips and energy awareness posters were placed in common areas. Both residents and managers contributed to these successful competition results by adjusting thermostats and turning off lights, TVs and other electronic equipment when leaving rooms unoccupied. October was the month to transition from using air conditioning to heating, so when airmen left their rooms for extended periods of time, thermostats were either adjusted up to about 80 F for air conditioning or down to 62 F or lower for heating. With about 50 percent of the energy in a building being used for heating and cooling, thermostat settings can have a tremendous influence on energy savings. Reducing energy wasted to heat or cool unoccupied rooms is one of the most effective ways to save energy and reduce costs. The Airmen demonstrated that we all have the power to contribute to the Air Force's energy reduction goals. It has been estimated that up to 20 percent of energy consumed in buildings is wasted. Becoming more aware of how energy is used, and often wasted, in our personal and professional lives is the first step to making necessary changes.