2023 Federal Energy and Water Management Awards Winners

Steven Bolewski

U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs

Steven M. Bolewski, a registered professional engineer, demonstrates remarkable leadership and commitment as the Veterans Integrated Service Network energy manager for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), leveraging 42 years of diverse engineering experience. His pivotal role extends to efficiency projects, energy conservation strategies, and resilience efforts, notably securing seven awarded performance contracts exceeding $280 million in implementation value, with anticipated annual savings of $11.4 million. Bolewski's dedication is evident in spearheading modernization projects, including combined heat and power installations, solar PV projects, and boiler plant upgrades, showcasing his commitment to enhancing energy efficiency and promoting renewable energy usage. His innovative approach involves overcoming technical challenges, ensuring compliance, and contributing to the success of the VA's energy and modernization projects. Furthermore, Bolewski actively engages in institutionalization and behavior change, leading energy-related trainings, serving as a subject matter expert, and participating in advisory boards to share his expertise and ensure the success of energy-related initiatives within the VA.

Lyman Parkhurst

U.S. Army

Lyman Parkhurst boasts an extensive history of federal government service, including active-duty military service, contractor support, and civil service employment. Commissioned through the U.S. Naval Academy in 1982, he transitioned to the private sector in 1990, spending 15 years as an energy engineer and program manager. Joining U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy in 2015, Parkhurst transformed the energy culture, overseeing improvements in utility monitoring systems, energy efficiency, and sustainability projects. His initiatives—such as a utility monitoring and control system, photovoltaic (PV) rooftop array, and central energy plant optimization—enhanced energy resilience and saved substantial costs. Parkhurst's dedication to innovation, from ground-source heat pump installations to cybersecurity advancements, has positioned USAG Italy as a leader in energy efficiency within the U.S. Army.

BJ Tomlinson

U.S. Army

BJ Tomlinson, division chief of sustainability and energy at Fort Bliss, Texas, was pivotal in securing the Fort Bliss utility energy service contract (UESC), awarded in June 2022. Over a nearly 4-year effort, Tomlinson's persistence and leadership were instrumental in moving from concept to award, placing Fort Bliss on the verge of significant improvements in water and energy resilience. His impactful implementation of the UESC project included three energy conservation measures: lighting upgrades, east Bliss water resilience and microgrid, and energy storage, contributing significantly to Fort Bliss's energy and water security. Tomlinson's innovative approach involved integrating the UESC contractor into the development of the Fort Bliss Installation Energy and Water Plan, resulting in collaborations that addressed gaps in resilience.

Jeannie Belew

U.S. Army

Jeannie Belew has been a stalwart leader at Fort Leonard Wood since 2004. Starting as the utilities manager, she addressed a decade-long billing backlog and evolved to oversee utility privatization contracts. Belew's leadership includes implementing electric vehicle charging stations, managing utility privatization contracts, and navigating challenges like a tornado disaster in 2010. Her efforts resulted in tangible successes, including electric vehicle charging stations and a propane-air plant upgrade, saving more than $1 million during the polar vortex of 2021. Beyond official duties, Belew volunteered her time during a transition period, logging over 100 hours, showcasing her continuous dedication to Fort Leonard Wood's energy resilience and efficiency.

Christopher Swihart

U.S. Army

Christopher Swihart, Chief Warrant Officer 4, is currently stationed at the U.S. Army National Guard (ARNG) Garrison Headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. His illustrious career spans over 15 years of dedicated service. As the sustainability program manager for the ARNG, he plays a crucial role in planning, programming, and executing Base Operations Support public works programs for all 54 states, territories, and the District of Columbia. His expertise extends to serving as the subject matter expert on energy, sustainability, and base operations, representing the ARNG at senior energy and sustainability working groups and ensuring compliance with U.S. Department of Defense and Army policies.

Jack Peters

U.S. Army

Jack Peters has more than 38 years of leadership spanning military, corporate, and Department of Defense roles. Serving as the project manager for a $21 million environmental footprint reduction program in Afghanistan, he recommended operational energy changes resulting in substantial cost savings. Peters oversees energy and water reporting initiatives, implements advanced electric meter projects in Kuwait, and supports energy resilience and conservation investment program projects for enhanced resilience and diversity of energy sources. His innovative efforts secured recognition for U.S Army Central as a landholding command, unlocking additional funding opportunities. Peters consistently advocates for the operational energy concept, briefs general officers, and publishes program success stories, playing a pivotal role in advancing energy security and resilience within the armed forces.

Wayne Evelo

U.S. Department of Energy

Wayne Evelo's remarkable 32-year career with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) exemplifies his unwavering commitment to sustainability and exceptional service. Serving in various leadership roles within the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Evelo's impact has been substantial. He managed sustainability and utility programs at the Sandia Field Office, led project teams, and served as the contracting officer's representative for the first-ever Los Alamos Field Office energy savings performance contract (ESPC). His leadership has been instrumental in institutionalizing sustainability at DOE NNSA. Notably, he played a pivotal role in transforming Sandia National Laboratories, ensuring that all new construction met Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards.

Tracy Ribeiro

U.S. Department of Energy

Tracy Ribeiro is a facilitator for the DOE Office of Legacy Management's (LM) Environmental Management System. Ribeiro's leadership spans over 15 years, starting as a site manager in 2007 and progressing to her current role as the Environmental Compliance, Safety, Health, and Quality Assurance Team supervisor. Ribeiro has initiated strategic direction, maintained organizational alignment, and collaborated with stakeholders to address sustainability challenges at LM's 101 sites across 30 states and territories. Her inclusive and collaborative leadership style has fostered a cross-functional sustainability team of over 17 federal and 60 contractor employees, resulting in a sustainability goal accomplishment rate above 80%.

Sarah Wenninger

U.S. General Services Administration

Sarah Wenninger has made a significant impact over her 20-year federal career. As the regional energy coordinator for the U.S. General Services Administration's (GSA) New England region, she played a pivotal role in reducing the energy use of all fuel sources across buildings in the region. Her efforts resulted in a remarkable 31% decrease in energy usage from 2003 to 2021, contributing to cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint. Wenninger's leadership extends beyond energy reduction, encompassing a wide range of expertise, from commissioning and energy auditing to smart buildings analytics and alternative financing.

Sharon Conger

U.S. General Services Administration

Sharon Conger's distinguished career at GSA showcases exceptional leadership, implementation skills, innovation, and institutionalization of ESPCs. Beginning in real estate contracting in 1989, she progressed to a branch chief in operations and, over the past decade, has been a driving force in establishing ESPCs as a standard practice within GSA. Conger's leadership involves facilitating, coordinating, and bringing regional and national teams together to execute projects. Under her guidance, ESPCs have become ingrained in GSA's approach to maintaining the federal real estate portfolio, influencing design standards, operations, and long-term strategic planning.

Daniel Magro

U.S. Navy

Daniel Magro, with over 28 years of experience in energy management, stands out as a distinguished leader and expert in ESPCs. His significant role in the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command's energy program, marked by multiple awards and accolades, showcases his leadership. Serving as the ESPC program lead since 2008, Magro successfully managed the $6 billion program, exceeding goals during the 2016 Presidential Performance Contracting Challenge. Magro's implementation track record is impressive, overseeing over 175 emergency capital investment program (ECIP) projects and 92 ESPC projects, yielding substantial savings. Additionally, he standardized ESPC processes through templates, established central drives for accessible information, and instituted a culture of continual improvement.

Jeffrey Johnson

U.S. Navy

Jeffrey Johnson, the executive director of Naval District Washington, has over 35 years of dedicated service to the U.S. Navy, and his leadership has been pivotal in shaping energy, utilities, and facilities management. As the principal advisor to the Region Commander, he oversees policy, strategy, governance, and business management for the region, leading a team of more than 3,400 employees. Throughout his career, Johnson has played a transformative role in modernization and infrastructure improvement projects, making significant strides toward enterprise energy goals.

Joe Buch

U.S. Air Force

Joe Buch is a mechanical engineer and energy project manager at the Air National Guard (ANG) Civil Engineering Technical Services Center. With over 38 years of experience, Buch's leadership has been crucial in advancing ANG mission assurance, operational readiness, and energy and water resilience. Initially an Air Force pilot, he transitioned to civilian government service, focusing on the design and construction of facility mechanical systems and energy projects. His implementation efforts include spearheading the execution of ANG's resource efficiency management and installation energy plan contracts, overseeing sustainment restoration and maintenance energy projects, and contributing to the energy resilience and conservation investment program.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Power Generation Enhanced Use Leases

U.S. Navy
Tracie Johnson, Marcus Cline, Robert Kleinman, Shereen Wachi, Curtis Noborikawa

The Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam power generation enhanced use leases (EULs) represent a transformative renewable energy project with over $1.2 billion in funding investment. This initiative will provide more than 250 MW of renewable energy to Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), enhancing island grid reliability and supporting the Department of the Navy's mission resilience during grid outages. Aligned with climate objectives and directives, the project addresses energy security gaps, contributes to Hawaii's 100% renewable energy goal by 2045, and aids HECO in overcoming challenges from the decommissioned coal-burning plant and planned retirements of oil-fired units. The project involves two EULs at West Loch Annex and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam main base sites, emphasizing dispatchable energy systems, battery energy storage, and critical infrastructure upgrades. The innovative approach involves a dedicated Government Technical Team, weekly meetings, and adaptive strategies to address technical, operational, and resource challenges, ensuring the project's success in meeting milestones and minimizing mission impacts.

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Microgrid Utility Energy Service Contract

U.S. Marine Corps
Amanda Renjifo, Beverly Wade, Brian Marshburn, James Sides, Richard Wyckoff

In FY22, Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) awarded a groundbreaking $22 million firm fixed price UESC to Duke Energy at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune. Leveraging energy resilience and conservation investment program (ERCIP) funding, the UESC aims to install a microgrid at Camp Johnson and implement energy conservation measures across the base. The microgrid design includes on-site natural gas-fired generation, a battery energy storage system, and integration of existing solar PV systems, managed by a sophisticated supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. This innovative approach enhances energy security, ensures mission continuity, and reduces energy costs, serving as a model for other Marine Corps installations. The integration of ERCIP funding with the UESC provides a 20-year sustainment tail through the utility company, streamlining project management and administration. The success of this project is attributed to the collaborative efforts of key individuals, reflecting the importance of communication and partnership in executing innovative and impactful projects. Awarded in September 2022, the UESC is set for completion in 2025, marking a significant milestone in advancing the energy security and sustainability goals of MCB Camp Lejeune.

88th Readiness Division Energy and Water Program Resilience

U.S. Army
Jared Corsi, Thomas Helgeson, Ralph Thorn, Rachel Kemper, Ronald Hovland

Led by Colonel Jared Corsi, the 88th Readiness Division at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, is a key command of the United States Army Reserve and manages 555 buildings across 11 states, providing Base Operations Support to over 51,000 Army Reserve soldiers. The Division's Energy and Water program focuses on enhancing energy and water efficiency, with achievements including a virtual installation energy and water plan, collaborative resilience projects, and innovative financing approaches. Noteworthy results include a 63% reduction in overall water consumption and a 16.4% decrease in overall energy usage. Despite challenges, the 88th Readiness Division showcases effective management, technical expertise, and a can-do attitude, positioning it as a leader in promoting sustainability and resilience within the Army Reserve.

Marine Corps Installation Command Electric Vehicle Autonomous Renewable Charger Program

U.S. Marine Corps
James Gough, Ben Amare

In addressing the critical need for electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities to enhance the federal fleet's modernization and bolster energy security at bases, Marine Corps Installation Command's Transportation Services Branch (G-4) has been instrumental in providing EV charging facilities through the innovative Beam EV Autonomous Renewable Charger (ARC) program. With the potential to extend vehicle range, reduce reliance on petroleum fuels, save costs, and enhance resilience, the program procured 21 rapidly deployable and solar-powered Beam charging stations for $1.8 million in FY22. This deployment, covering 14 installations, represents a nearly 40% increase in available ports, significantly advancing the Marine Corps' transition to EVs. The program, born out of challenges in large-scale fleet electrification and permanent EV charging facility installation, has overcome hurdles through adaptive practices, impactful communication, and strategic planning. Notably, the program achieved cost savings of $6,900 and emissions savings of 17.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e) in FY22. The EV ARC program has positioned the Marine Corps for future zero-emission vehicle acquisitions, establishing a successful model for federal fleet electrification.

Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations Utility Analytics Program

U.S. Department of State
Jennifer Faupel, Cynthia Bensburg, Joseph Cafferata, Richard Sullivan, William Moser

The Utility Analytics Program within the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations has demonstrated outstanding achievements in sustainability and resource management. Aligned with Executive Order 14057, this program has revolutionized the Department's global approach to utility reporting, energy conservation, and cost optimization. Notably, the team established a comprehensive data collection effort, utilizing the EnergyCAP platform for centralized analysis of utility bills from 244 overseas posts. This innovative approach leveraged optical character recognition, minimized manual data entry, saved time, and improved accuracy. The program's far-reaching impacts include energy, water, and greenhouse gas reductions, identification of cost-avoidance opportunities, and engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Intergovernmental Support Agreement To Realize Low Carbon Fuel Standards

U.S. Navy
Janice Torres, Jim Mugg, Jessica Ward, David Silverstein, Thomas Puckett

This program highlights the remarkable achievements of the Commander, Navy Region Southwest team in collaboration with the Department of the Navy and the Port of San Diego. The team's leadership resulted in a groundbreaking agreement, utilizing 10 U.S.C. § 2913(c), to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and enhance air quality. Through an intergovernmental support agreement, Naval Base San Diego accepted incentives for its vessels' use of shore power, aligning with Executive Orders 14008 and 14057. The program's fiscal impact is evident, generating $10 million in revenue—after expenses, $8.2 million—for crucial energy and utility infrastructure upgrades, expediting vital repairs by over 6 years. The program's forward-looking approach not only anticipates an additional $11 million in annual revenue but also underscores its role in reducing GHG emissions and fostering collaboration between Navy bases and their communities, exemplified by its expansion to include other installations in the region.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Energy Management Section

U.S. Air Force
Noah Fillian, Chad Kneisley, James Landfair, Jessie Northridge, Patric Shoup

The Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Energy Management Section is a standout in energy efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. Using a comprehensive energy audit process, the Energy Management Section prioritizes projects for maximum energy savings and environmental impact. In FY22, key projects, including a $14 million high-temperature hot-water decentralization project and a $24 million decentralization project, showcased their forward-looking approach. Planning for future investments of approximately $100 million, including a redundant transmission feed and large-scale solar arrays, demonstrates their commitment to federal and Air Force energy goals. The Energy Management Section actively engages the base community, fosters a culture of continuous learning, and embraces innovative technologies like the Fluke 1777 Power Analyzer. Their exemplary achievements position them as leaders in energy efficiency and sustainability within the military landscape.

Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany Net-Zero Electricity

U.S. Marine Corps
Michael Feeney, Jeanne Geisel, Charles Phelps, Juan Vilchez, Shane Hillshouse

Over the past two decades, Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) Albany has established a leading energy program within the Department of Defense. Strategically located in Albany, Georgia, the base prioritizes distributed energy generation, cybersecurity, and efficiency efforts to support operational forces. In FY22, MCLB Albany achieved net-zero electricity, generating more renewable energy than it consumes. Diverse sources, including a biomass generator, landfill gas generators, and a solar farm, contribute to this success. The base embraces fleet electrification with mobile solar-powered electric vehicle charging systems and a contract for 21 electric vehicle chargers. Notable results include a 10.7% reduction in energy use intensity in FY22, significant greenhouse gas reductions, and various cost-effective energy projects. MCLB Albany's dedication to net-zero electricity, combined with partnerships and technical expertise, has positioned it as a model for sustainability and resilience.

U.S. Embassy Koror First Net-Zero Embassy Project

U.S. Department of State
David Shaffer, Todd Evans, Sharmeena Salam-Haughton, Joseph Cafferata, William Moser

In 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Koror, Palau, achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first U.S. net-zero energy embassy, thanks to the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations' installation of a 162-kW solar PV system. This initiative aligns with the Bureau's commitment to sustainability, showcasing early action on renewable energy and achieving several key milestones. The embassy now produces 100% of its power needs, resulting in a projected cost avoidance of over $100,000 annually. This comprehensive project, initiated in 2018, not only reduces the embassy's environmental impact but also supports Palau's renewable energy goals. The Bureau's leadership extends to other sustainability measures, including LED lighting upgrades and collaborations with the Palau Public Utilities Corporation for net metering, contributing to Palau's energy stability. The project's success, quantified by cost savings, carbon emission offsets, and a net-zero energy outcome, positions Embassy Koror as a trailblazer and inspires a whole-of-government approach to sustainability. The Bureau's strategic bundling of projects, innovative approaches, and dedication to regional partnerships further solidify its role as a leader within the U.S. Department of State.

Net-Zero Oklahoma Project

U.S. General Services Administration
Steve Rutledge, Kinga Hydras, Patrick Chapman, David Cockrell, Stan McCourry

In 2018, GSA's Region 7 energy team launched an ambitious plan for energy efficiency and building upgrades across the region using UESCs. Focusing on 40 buildings, including five in Oklahoma, the UESC process involved a meticulous path from assessment to audit, with key roles played by the core team, utility company Oklahoma Gas & Electric (OG&E), and external subject matter experts from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Tenant feedback and subject matter expert insights contributed to GSA's mission-related goal of creating a healthier workplace. Executed in the Oklahoma City Federal Building, the project implemented grid-interactive efficient building technologies, achieving near net-zero emissions and inspiring similar initiatives. Integrated into the building's systems, including a PV array, LED lighting, and battery energy storage system (BESS), the project demonstrated the feasibility and positive impact of grid-interactive efficient building technologies on efficiency, resulting in significant cost savings. Supported by grants and funding, the project yields $13.5 million in projected savings, a 41% energy reduction, and a 3,100 metric ton annual greenhouse gas reduction, positioning it as a model for GSA's commitment to sustainability and resilience.

Kadena Air Base Energy Savings Performance Contract Project

U.S. Air Force
Michael Ringenberg, Mark Dent, Dean Andrews, Dan Sherrill, Shawn Williams

Kadena Air Base strategically addressed resource limitations through an $86 million ESPC, marking one of the largest water conservation initiatives in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). Completed in Fiscal Year (FY) 2022, the project includes four energy conservation measures, featuring LED lighting installations and water infrastructure upgrades that achieved substantial savings. Over 1,100 facilities benefited from LED lights, enhancing energy efficiency, and providing robust lighting. Water upgrades in more than 1,000 facilities saved nearly 60 million gallons in FY22, crucial for the island's limited water supply. Successful coordination, especially in military family housing areas, underscores the project's resilience. Aligned with DAF's mission assurance and sustainability goals, the project serves as a model for ongoing ESPCs, documented in the ESPC Playbook. Beyond FY22, the completion of a 10-MW diesel generator microgrid in FY23 enhances mission reliability and resilience. The project's innovation, addressing logistics, multi-service coordination, and a standby microgrid, showcases Kadena Air Base's adaptability for potential transferability to other bases. The water and lighting energy conservation measures not only deliver significant savings but also improve inventory control and streamline procurement, fostering a resilient and efficient future for Kadena Air Base.

Army Water and Heat System Slip Lining Project

U.S. Army
Jennifer Meyer, Peter Marvin, Fred Sandgren, Dave Belanger, Kris Petersen

This project at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, spearheaded by the Department of the Army, tackles vital infrastructure issues in the challenging Arctic setting of the military base. With Fort Wainwright's extensive cantonment relying on a privatized utility system, the aging condensate and water systems posed significant concerns like leaks and deterioration. In response to these challenges, an innovative project was launched to rejuvenate these systems without resorting to excavation, considering the short construction season and environmental complexities. The project involved installing new stainless steel piping within existing lines, creating a revamped system without demolition, and rehabilitating ductile iron pipe waterlines using a cured-in-place-pipe (CIPP) lining system. These measures not only averted the risk of catastrophic failures but also enhanced water conservation, energy efficiency, and water quality. The project established slip lining and CIPP as preferred strategies for system upgrades in similar scenarios, with potential applicability to other infrastructure systems, demonstrating a commitment to efficiency and resilience in extreme environments.

National Institute of Standards and Technology Gaithersburg Helium Recovery and Recycling System Project

U.S. Department of Commerce
Steven Blankenship, Krishna Krisnamoorthy, Warren Livengood, Joseph Stroscio, Sungmin Kim

This project is acknowledged for developing a system to recover and recycle substantial quantities of liquid helium in Building 218 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Gaithersburg Campus. This initiative serves as a model for other NIST labs, government institutions, and private-sector entities. The project not only curtails the irreversible loss of Earth's finite helium supply but also diminishes greenhouse gas emissions associated with helium transportation to the NIST campus. With volatile helium prices and supply issues, the project significantly reduces costs for ongoing research in NIST labs. The team's innovative system, designed to recover up to 120 liters of liquid helium daily, demonstrates substantial environmental and cost benefits. The success has led to the establishment of a second capability on the campus and holds transferable potential for other institutions. Key innovations include modular design, impurity detection, continuous monitoring, documentation of best practices, and a collaborative partnership between scientists and support staff.

Sustainable Science at Sea: Comprehensive and Collaborative Energy Management and Greenhouse Gas Reduction on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Ship Reuben Lasker Project

U.S. Department of Commerce
Colin Davis, Chad Cary, Jonathan Heesch, Claire Surrey-Marsden

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ship Reuben Lasker project achieved significant greenhouse gas reductions through collaborative energy management. Operating as a mobile laboratory, the ship faced unique challenges, relying on diesel fuel for electricity to support scientific research, ship propulsion, and onboard life. The project successfully optimized electricity generation efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. Strategies included using a power management system, modifying propulsion for efficient speed, and implementing energy-saving measures for hotel services. The initiative resulted in substantial cost savings, extended equipment lifespan, and environmental benefits. The project's success led to the adoption of more advanced power management systems on other NOAA vessels, potentially saving up to 30% in fuel, and ongoing collaboration with science partners, providing training for new officers to ensure safe and efficient operations. The commitment of officers and crew, along with initiatives like friendly competitions to maximize fuel efficiency, highlights the dedication to refining energy efficiency practices. The emphasis on safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement ensures the sustainability and success of these energy-saving initiatives.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Energy Sciences Center Project

U.S. Department of Energy
Gary Brown, Russell Warren, Ryan Kilbury, Ronald Gallagher, Jeffrey Carlson

DOE's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) achieved notable success with its Energy Sciences Center (ESC) project, delivering a high-performance sustainable facility that houses collaborative research in chemistry, materials science, and computing, contributing to climate change mitigation. This $93 million project, completed 15 months ahead of schedule, supports PNNL's goal of achieving net-zero emissions with 24/7 carbon-free energy across the lab by 2030. The ESC boasts 52 flexible laboratory modules, 200 workstations, and advanced collaboration spaces. Despite complex challenges in designing a high-performance laboratory, the ESC adheres to sustainable principles, featuring passive and active energy and water reduction designs, resulting in a 37% energy reduction. The innovative heat transfer system, capturing and reusing waste heat, significantly reduces the ESC's carbon footprint by 2 million pounds per year. The project has been recognized with the 2022 DOE sustainability award and serves as a model for sustainable research facilities nationwide.

U.S. Embassy Niamey Solar and Battery Project

U.S. Department of State
David Shaffer, Richard Sullivan, Frederick Agamie, Michael Calabrese, William Moser

The U.S. Embassy in Niamey, Niger, achieved remarkable success through the installation of a pioneering large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) in collaboration with the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations. This initiative demonstrated ingenuity, early action, and a commitment to sustainability by maximizing solar power usage, reducing dependence on diesel generators and the local grid, and enhancing energy efficiency. The BESS, with 1.5-MWh capacity, efficiently integrates with a 712-kW solar PV system, resulting in a 97% reduction in diesel generator use. The project showcases the embassy's commitment to federal sustainability goals, aligning with Executive Order 14057, and sets an example for diplomatic posts worldwide. The BESS's intelligent power control system ensures a smooth transition between power sources, optimizes energy usage, stabilizes the local grid, and leads to significant cost avoidance. This innovative approach, integrating cutting-edge technologies and aligning with broader administration priorities, fosters sustainability, resilience, and inspires replication across the diplomatic community.

Marshall Space Flight Center Water Leak Detection and Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project

National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Rhonda Truitt, William Berry, Brent Garber, Clark Lowery

In 2019, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) launched six pilot projects, including water leak detection and advanced metering infrastructure, aimed at foundational infrastructure enhancements for operational efficiency, energy and water conservation, safety risk reduction, and future capability improvements. These interconnected projects, focusing on MSFC's potable water system, successfully addressed water leaks and consumption issues. The water leak detection project incorporated 28 sensors and provided pinpoint accuracy in identifying leaks, reducing excavation needs and associated labor resources. The complementary advanced metering infrastructure project repaired boundary meters and installed building-level meters, enhancing leak detection capabilities. These efforts, costing $40,000 for water leak detection and an additional $780,000 for advanced metering infrastructure, resulted in substantial water savings, leak detections, and cost reductions, supporting NASA's response to Executive Order 14057 and federal water metering requirements. Moreover, water leak detection and advanced metering infrastructure contribute to environmental justice efforts by addressing water and soil contamination from historical military operations. The successful implementation of these projects, featuring data management tools, sensor technology, and digitalization, aligns with NASA's Smart Center initiative for energy and water conservation and showcases MSFC's commitment to efficiency, adaptability, and mission support.

Photovoltaic System Project at James E. Van Zandt Altoona Veterans' Administration Medical Center

U.S Department of Veterans Affairs
Douglas Pollock, Brent Barnum, Kenneth Colpetzer, Richard Flarend, Nicholas Chabon

The James E. Van Zandt Altoona Veterans' Administration Medical Center in Blair County, Pennsylvania, successfully implemented a groundbreaking solar PV project, installed in partnership with Serviam Construction and Groundhog Solar. This initiative, integrated into the Specialty Clinic expansion, showcases resilience and innovation. Operational since April 2023, the 171-panel solar array produced 38,084 kWh in the first four months, saving $2,715 and reducing 16.5 metric tons of CO2 compared to the same period in 2022. Projected to yield approximately 82,900 kWh annually, the PV system contributes nearly 1% of the center's electricity needs. Aligning with VA goals and referencing key guidelines, the project ensures comprehensive energy and water resource management, incorporating renewables. Challenges during construction amid the COVID-19 pandemic and coordination obstacles were overcome. With savings projections of $6,061 and an annual CO2 reduction of 58 metric tons, the center's solar array exemplifies sustainable practices, supporting local businesses, and setting a leadership example.

Sustainable Federal Building Program

U.S. Department of Transportation
Russ Goering, Ozzy Diaz, Kevin Coker, Vicki Ray, Jerry King

The Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC) excels in its Sustainable Federal Building Program, certifying sixteen buildings between 2013 and 2022—67% of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) structures and nearly 60% of U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) buildings. Surpassing the 15% threshold, MMAC significantly contributes to a 53% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the 2008 baseline. The 2022 introduction of the integrated facility assessment process (IFAP) enhances efficiency, combining sustainable building assessments with Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA) energy and water evaluations and climate hazard risk evaluations. Beyond mandated goals, MMAC increases climate hazard resilience and offers a transferable approach. The innovative IFAP process, jointly developed with the Office of the Secretary of Transportation, sets a precedent for efficient facility assessments across government agencies.