Air Force Energy Program

07/26/2024

Our team had the privilege of representing the Department of the Air Force and the Global Air Forces Climate Change Collaboration (GAFCCC) at the Global Air and Space Chiefs Conference in London, United Kingdom. The GAFCCC seeks to increase collaboration between partner nation Air Forces to share best practices and innovative technologies that optimize energy use and increase combat and mission capability while reducing total climate impact.

As one of over 50 nations participating in the GAFCCC, we lead the Operations Working Group and are committed to forging stronger partnerships with air forces worldwide. Our Operations Working Group is driving innovation and sharing best practices on modernizing our enterprise to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global environment.

During the conference, we hosted an informative booth and spoke with military leaders from across the globe about some of our key initiatives including legacy aircraft drag reduction technologies, enhanced engine sustainment and modern software scheduling tools. We look forward to continued collaboration!

07/22/2024

07/17/2024

We're thrilled to announce the release of the Department of the Air Force’s latest memo: "Planning and Operationalizing Electric Vehicle Charging Facilities Memo." This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainability and operational excellence across our installations. Key highlights include transitioning 100% of light-duty non-tactical vehicles to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2027, and establishing Electric Vehicle Charging Facilities (EVCFs) to support government-owned vehicles, retail facilities, privatized housing, and more.

The memo details comprehensive plans for EVCF planning, operations, funding responsibilities, and cybersecurity measures, ensuring robust infrastructure development. Additionally, it outlines the implementation of charging stations with accessible payment options and innovative business models. This initiative underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability while enhancing operational readiness.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to lead the way in energy efficiency and environmental stewardship!

Read the full memo here:

07/16/2024

Ms. Nancy Balkus, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Infrastructure, Energy and Environment, recently participated in the 2nd annual Nuclear Energy Security Summit where she discussed the Micro-Reactor Pilot Program at Eielson AFB. The Eielson pilot sets a model for regulatory and siting processes for micro-reactors, emphasizing the need for rapid adaptation and integration of emerging technologies in Great Power Competition. This panel showcased DAF’s commitment to enhancing energy assurance, resilience, and sustainability through advanced nuclear reactors.

07/10/2024

Charles Lindbergh was the first aviator to successfully complete a nonstop flight over the Atlantic Ocean, thanks to innovative technology to expand fuel capacity and increase range. Today, Air Force Operational Energy embodies the “Spirit of St. Louis,” through initiatives that mitigate risk to the warfighter and optimize how the Department of the Air Force uses energy.

Our team is comprised of subject matter experts in aviation, data research, acquisitions, wargaming, and maintenance. We look for ways to increase combat effectiveness through energy-informed solutions and to decrease fuel supply chain vulnerabilities to fly smarter, not fly less.

Learn more about who we are and where we’re headed in the summer edition of Exceptional Release from the Logistics Officer Association 👉

The Exceptional Release’s Symposium & Summer 2024 Edition issue is now available for download. Read, share, and contribute! Symposium & Summer 2024: DOWNLOAD HERE

06/28/2024

We're thrilled to announce that Edwards Air Force Base, CA, and Tyndall Air Force Base, FL, are winners of the prestigious Presidential Federal Sustainability Awards!

Edwards AFB received the Advancing Carbon-Free Electricity award for its groundbreaking Sanborn Solar Storage Project. Spanning over 4,000 acres, it’s one of the world's largest solar and battery storage projects and the largest public-private partnership in DoD history!

Tyndall AFB won in the Advancing Climate Adaptation and Resilience category. After Hurricane Michael's devastation in 2018, the installation began a resilient, sustainable “Installation of the Future" rebuild, integrating innovative nature-based coastal resilience solutions.

These awards, presented at the White House, celebrate federal agencies and employees who drive sustainability and climate resilience efforts. Congratulations to all the awardees for their incredible achievements!

Read more about the Presidential Federal Sustainability Award winners here:

The Presidential Federal Sustainability Awards recognize federal agencies and employees who have made transformational efforts to advance sustainability and climate resilience.

06/13/2024

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Operational Energy, Roberto I. Guerrero, and members of the Operational Energy team recently visited Tinker Air Force Base to receive a program review and updates of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s Propulsion Directorate. The visit included a tour of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex, briefings on the capabilities and initiatives of the OC-ALC’s PROACT section, F119 aircraft engine Maintenance Repair and Overhaul and more.

Our partnerships with organizations like the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center are helping to improve energy intensity and ‘fuel more fight’ for our airmen. By reducing the energy demand of our aircraft through initiatives like the engine wash process and advanced compressor blade coatings, we can increase our range and time on-station, improve our fuel-offload capability, and boost engine performance. We appreciated the informative visit to Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and their dedication to maximizing combat capability for the warfighter – One Team, One Fight!

05/28/2024

SAF/IEE is continuing to incorporate Energy Resilience Readiness Exercises (ERREs) as a crucial element in both mission and energy assurance efforts across the Department of the Air Force. Also known as 'black start exercises,' ERREs play a vital role in supporting mission resilience by actively testing key enabling systems under "blue sky" conditions, pinpointing gaps in energy, water, and mission capabilities. To date, we have successfully conducted 24 ERREs with more on their way!

05/22/2024

Clean and sustainable energy is essential to meeting the mission critical functions of our installations. DAF is investing in renewable energy projects that span solar, wind, biomass, and ground source heat pump efforts and obtained 6.6% of electricity from renewable sources in 2023.

05/15/2024

ICYMI: The Civil Engineers Requirements Development Workshop returned for its sixth year April 23-25, 2024. Attendees representing nearly every installation across the world joined together to share best practices, processes, and lessons learned to bring back to their respective installations and staffs.

Members of team SAF/IEE including Ms. Nancy Balkus, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Environment, Safety, and Infrastructure and Mr. Marc Thomas, Interim Director of Installation Resilience, provided insights on building relationships, requirements identification and development, resilience integration, and electrification policy. Read a full recap of the workshop here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/471120/civil-engineers-requirements-development-workshop-2024

05/13/2024

The Department of the Air Force is leading the way in efficiency to make sure our installations are mission ready! From installations to vehicles, we're modernizing our infrastructure while advancing our mid- and long-term resilience goals. Stay tuned for more strides in innovation as we pilot electrification pathways for a greener, cost-effective future!

05/09/2024

At this year’s Energy Exchange, we celebrated our 2023 Federal Energy and Water Management Award winners! This year’s winners included Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s Civil Engineer Energy Management Section, Kadena Air Base, and Air National Guard’s Joseph Buch. These champions are leading the charge towards energy independence and security. Read more about their remarkable achievements here: https://www.safie.hq.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3671664/department-of-the-air-force-winners-of-federal-energy-and-water-management-awar/

05/07/2024

Exciting news! The Department of the Air Force recently introduced eJARVIS, a game-changing energy management application. With advanced cybersecurity and real-time data insights, eJARVIS empowers energy managers to make informed decisions and optimize mission readiness. Read more about this innovative tool here:

The Department of the Air Force celebrated the launch of eJARVIS at the recent Energy Exchange 2024 event in Pittsburgh, PA. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the department’s

04/26/2024

Check out Operational Energy innovation in action! Our team recently met with Vortex Control Technologies and AFSOC to conduct fit testing of Finlet prototypes on the C-130J at Hulburt Field. Finlets, small devices attached to the aft body of the aircraft, reduce drag and allow the plane to fly farther on less fuel. This integration of innovative aerodynamic technology with our existing fleet will increase operational readiness and combat capability. We look forward to the next phase of the RDT&E process for Finlets!

04/18/2024

The Department of the Air Force is making strides in sustainable energy solutions! At Kirtland AFB, we're pioneering a revolutionary DC microgrid, enhancing resilience and efficiency. Meanwhile, at Francis E. Warren AFB, we're exploring geothermal integration into district microgrids for reliable carbon pollution-free power. In Florida, our solar microgrid pilot project at Tyndall AFB sets a precedent for resilience and cost-efficiency. Together, we're building a greener future!

04/16/2024

Our installations rely on water to support training and testing activities, operational capacity, and facilities and infrastructure maintenance. By investing in water resilience, we are ensuring our installations are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

04/15/2024

With approximately 40 miles of coastline, Tyndall AFB is vulnerable to high winds, extensive rainfall, and storm surges. Using nature-based solutions, Tyndall is working to reduce erosion and buffer against storm to ensure the base remains resilient and ready amid changing environmental conditions.

04/15/2024

This month, Air Force Operational Energy hosted the first annual Operational Energy Workshop at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. Over 100 attendees from across Air Force program offices, academia and industry joined us to discuss the current state of Operational Energy initiatives, take part in technology demonstrations, and make tangible progress on projects through focused working sessions across the C-17, C-130, KC-135 fleets and more.

“The workshop was a huge success. We brought together some of the best minds in aerodynamics and aircraft propulsion, and the collaborative spirit was impressive,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Operational Energy, Roberto Guerrero. “These conversations were critical for propelling our initiatives forward as we orient for great power competition, where a robust and secure energy supply is paramount to combat capability. We are grateful for everyone’s enthusiastic participation and the excellent ideas they brought to the table.”

Prior to the workshop, our team also hosted the quarterly meetup of the Global Air Forces Climate Change Collaboration (GAFCCC) at the Wright Brothers Institute. The GAFCCC brings together Air Forces from around the world to share best practices in improving energy intensity while reducing emissions.

Thank you to all who participated in the event, we look forward to future collaborations and progress.

04/12/2024

Each April, the Department of the Air Force recognizes Earth Day to highlight the importance of protecting and stewarding the natural environment for the ex*****on of our mission and the betterment of our planet.

04/12/2024

Big thanks to IDGA.org for an engaging and impactful Operational Energy Summit!

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Operational Energy, Roberto Guerrero, participated in a thought-provoking panel discussion on Air Power and Energy. Joined by colleagues, Mr. Kirk Philips, Director of the Air Force Office of Energy Assurance, and the Honorable (Ret.) Ms. Sharon Burke, Former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Operational Energy, the conversation centered on the critical and growing intersection of operational and installation energy needs for a robust national defense.

Mr. Guerrero underscored several key takeaways:

1. Modernization of legacy aircraft: Upgrading our fleet with improved aerodynamics and drag reduction technology is essential for improved fuel efficiency and operational effectiveness.

2. Enhanced planning: Modern mission planning technology and realistic wargaming can optimize fuel usage throughout the supply chain.

3. Investment in groundbreaking technologies: The Blended Wing Body aircraft and similar innovations hold incredible promise for the future of energy-efficient air travel.

We look forward to continued collaboration in ensuring a secure and sustainable future for our nation's air power.

04/09/2024

We are entering an era of Great Power Competition, a Decade of Consequence—the war in Ukraine has taught us that operational energy is a commodity that can be easily weaponized to cripple combat operations.

We won’t let that occur.

The United States Air Force is preparing for this and innovating like never before; by enhancing drag reduction with winglets and microvanes on our aircraft, AI driven planning software, and ‘flying right’ to ensure max use of our fuel resources for a high-end fight.

Last week we convened an Operational Energy tech workshop at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at Wright-Patterson AFB to bring industry innovators together with the Air Force Research Laboratory - AFRL and our weapon system Program Offices to develop solutions that will “FUEL THE FIGHT.” Together, these programs will increase our speed, range, endurance and flexibility in places like the Indo-Pacific and save tens of millions of gallons of fuel.

We can no longer afford to move at the speed of government, we must move at the speed of the threat. It’s in our DNA as Airmen to innovate, we’ve been adapting to changing threats for over 75 years…let’s go!

04/05/2024

A huge thank you to DAF Energy Managers for their active participation in DAF Day at this year’s Energy Exchange! Their expertise, collaboration, and passion for the mission are driving positive change in our energy and water initiatives. Let's continue to work together towards a brighter, more sustainable future!

03/22/2024

From fire suppression and facility cleaning to human consumption and system operations, water security is vital to ensuring end-to-end resilience for Department of the Air Force installations. In honor of World Water Day, the Department of the Air Force is raising awareness about the importance of freshwater resources and sustainable water management. Join us in celebrating our commitment to safeguarding mission readiness and ensuring resilience: https://www.safie.hq.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3715053/waters-critical-role-in-mission-success/

03/12/2024

We're a fast-moving DoD organization contracting with commercial companies to solve national security problems

03/07/2024

Exciting News from Joint Base San Antonio! The installation signed an agreement with CPS Energy to explore resilient carbon-free energy solutions.

“In an era of great power competition, ensuring our installations have continuous access to the energy needed to power our missions, is more important than ever,” explained Nancy Balkus, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Environment, Safety, and Infrastructure.

JBSA's critical missions demand continuous energy access, and this partnership aims to enhance resilience through innovative technologies. Read more about the partnership here:

Joint Base San Antonio and 502nd Air Base Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Russell D. Driggers, City of San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, and CPS Energy President Rudy Garza signed a formal memorandum of

03/06/2024

Celebrating Women's History Month! Women have played pivotal roles in shaping the Department of the Air Force’s legacy. From pioneering aviators to leaders breaking barriers, their contributions have been instrumental in our journey. Join us in honoring their remarkable achievements and inspiring the next generation of trailblazers!

03/05/2024

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Operational Energy Roberto Guerrero recently addressed the Freeman Air and Space Institute at King's College London via webinar on critical Operational Energy initiatives. His talk, titled "Creating an Energy-Optimized Air Force," explored how the Air Force Operational Energy Program is leveraging 21st-century solutions to tackle modern challenges and build energy efficiency. These initiatives aim to maximize warfighter combat capability and reach, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

This event was part of a global collaboration among air forces, fostering sharing of ideas, best practices, and lessons learned to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve operational effectiveness through energy efficiency.

, view the webinar recording:

Mr Guerrero, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the US Air Force for Operational Energy, joined the Freeman Air and Space Institute (FASI) to discuss the mission ...

03/01/2024

Starting today, 29 squadrons across 12 Air Force Bases will kick off the 2024 Mission Ex*****on Excellence Program (MEEP) competition. MEEP is an incentive-based, cultural change initiative focused on optimizing aviation fuel use in heavy aircraft to maximize combat capability in preparation for conflict in a fuel-constrained environment (i.e., INDOPACOM). MEEP encourages energy efficient behaviors by offering monetary incentives in the form of rebates and awards to commend exemplary unit performance. Incentives help to fund unit-level requirements in proportion to fuel savings, a unique approach that rapidly drives adoption and amplifies the impact of funding.

Squadrons enrolled in MEEP are assessed based on multiple metrics, including accurate fuel planning, implementation of best practices, and advancements in operational energy processes. Since the program’s inception in 2022, participants have conserved over 6 million gallons of aviation fuel, totaling nearly $23 million in cost avoidance for the Department of Defense and earning over $11 million in monetary incentives.

Once fully implemented across the Mobility Air Forces (MAF) enterprise, MEEP is projected to save approximately $80 million annually through cost avoidance.

We wish this year’s squadrons the best of luck as they embark on the 2024 competition!

02/29/2024

Nancy Balkus, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Environment, Safety, and Infrastructure, travelled with staff as well as OSD and A4C representatives to Idaho National Laboratory to observe the status of ongoing advanced reactor research and demonstrations, innovative technologies, and discuss collaboration opportunities in support of the Department of the Air Force Micro-Reactor Pilot Program at Eielson Air Force Base. INL leadership and senior researchers offered insights into its nuclear energy capabilities and cutting-edge reactor research. Together, we're driving the needed scalability of first of kind commercial technology advancements and forging a path towards a brighter, more sustainable future to meet the challenges of Great Power Competition!

02/23/2024

Heading to the 2024 Logistics Officer Symposium in St. Louis, MO? Don’t miss out on our breakout session, “Operational Energy: Fueling Warfighter Innovation.” During the session, we’ll discuss our Operational Energy Program initiatives to drive innovation that enhances combat capabilities and readiness, reduces fuel demand and costs, and boosts ROI by streamlining operations. Can’t wait to see you there!