The Federal Energy and Water Management Awards recognize individuals, groups, and agencies for their outstanding contributions in the areas of energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of advanced and renewable energy technologies at federal facilities. Winners of the 2005 Federal Energy and Water Management Awards include the following.

Water Conservation Award to an Organization

United States Marine Corps
Marine Corps Base Hawaii

Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii

During FY 2004, Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) implemented a number of best management practices to reduce water consumption on the Base using tools such as energy savings performance contracts, sustainable building design, facility audits, and life-cycle cost analysis. Projects included upgrading the effluent irrigation system, conducting a leak detection survey and repairing identified leaks, replacing old plumbing fixtures in 1,200 housing facility bathrooms, replacing top-loading clothes waters with efficient front-loading washers, and installing low-flow plumbing fixtures in all renovation and new construction projects. MCBH also expanded their public awareness and information program to include training, awareness fairs and exhibits, and community information events. Together, these measures helped MCBH reduce water consumption by 19 percent in FY 2004, saving 183 million gallons of water and more than $360,000. Additionally, these efforts are helping conserve the island of Oahu's potable water supply.

Water Conservation Awards to Small Groups

James Ebisu
Paul Eyre
Michael Fitzgerald
Greg Hayashi
Claudio Lamosao
Department of the Navy
Naval Facilities Hawaii

Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

The Naval Facilities Hawaii Public Works Team executed an aggressive water resource master strategy to reduce water consumption and waste. The strategy centered on a long-term project to replace aging water distribution piping, some of which dated back to World War II. Replacing the pipes tightened the system, reducing leaks and other water loss. The team also repaired and recalibrated the existing metering system, adding irrigation meters that save millions of dollars in avoided sewer charges. Additionally, the team implemented a multi-media public awareness campaign, improved the waste reporting system, formed a rapid deployment response team to fix system leaks, and increased the use of moisture sensors and irrigation time clocks to avoid over-watering. These efforts saved 1 billion gallons of water and $5.4 million in FY 2004. The team also saved thousands of dollars in electricity costs by adjusting water distribution pump controls to turn off one 400 horsepower pump a few hours each day during the critical peak utility period.

Richard Fary
Wayne Jordan
Patrick O'Neal
Himanshu Patel
Smithsonian Institution
National Zoological Park

Washington, D.C.

The 163 acre National Zoological Park consumes more than 70 percent of the water used by Smithsonian Institution facilities in Washington, DC. In 2001, the Smithsonian energy and building managers identified a number of water conservation opportunities at the zoo, and converted them into a project financed and executed under a GSA area-wide energy services contract. The project included new water meters, digital controls of pool water levels, rain sensors for automatic irrigation systems, water pressure reducing valves and flow regulation valves, and repair of leaking valves and underground pipes. The work was coordinated closely with animal keepers and scheduled after hours to minimize disruption to zoo visitors. Although the project was completed in FY 2002, the Smithsonian began to realize savings from the project in FY 2004, equating to $207,000 in cost savings and 31.8 million gallons of water—an 8.7 percent reduction compared to pre-project water consumption.

Renewable Energy Awards to Small Groups

Linda Collins
Louis Lozito
Brian Magden
Ken Shutika
Mike Ziskind
U.S. General Services Administration's
Energy Center of Expertise
Greening of GSA Power Procurements

Washington, D.C.

In FY 2004, the General Services Administration's Energy Center of Expertise, in conjunction with their Northeast and Caribbean Regions, awarded its largest green power contracts in agency history, equating to a total of 92 million kilowatt-hours (kWh). GSA significantly increased its commitment from 6.3 million kWh in FY 2003, procuring the additional biomass and wind power from four energy providers in New York and New Jersey for the United Nations, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution, Social Security Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, EPA, and GSA facilities. Of the 92 million kWh, GSA purchased 75 million kWh for its own facilities, equivalent to 33 percent of their regional electricity requirements—13 times more than the renewable energy goal of 2.5 percent by FY 2005. Through these large procurements, GSA pays only 10.66 cents per kWh for biomass energy purchased for the Federal Building at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City, 0.14 cents less than the cost of non-green electricity, resulting in annual savings of $51,000.

Jeffrey Johns
Tracey McDonnell
Don Morrison
Jennifer Sanchez
Floyd Truetken
U.S. Department of the Interior
Fish and Wildlife Service
Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge
Environmental Discovery Education Center

Freeport, Texas

The new 2,095-square-foot Brazoria Environmental Discovery Educational Center is used by more than 5,000 students per year to conduct experiments in biology and environmental science. The complex consists of an education building with an open classroom and visitor displays, a restroom building, a water pump house, and a nature trail. The Center generates 100 percent of its own electrical power using two photovoltaic arrays totaling 7.4 kilowatts of capacity and producing 35.5 kilowatt-hours per day, saving approximately 44.2 million Btu annually. The building also incorporates numerous sustainable design principles to minimize energy consumption, conserve water, enhance indoor quality, and optimize operation and maintenance practices. Some of these measures include: small environmental footprint and minimal site disturbance, superinsulation, clerestory windows, low-E windows, T-8 lighting, natural ventilation, reflective metal roofing, an energy efficient HVAC system, roof rainwater capture for irrigation, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials, low-flow water fixtures, and an aerobic wastewater treatment system powered by solar energy.

Richard Buckman
Michael Conrad
Curt Iffinger
Brian Orrison
Wayne Thalasinos
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Solar Thermal Pilot Project at Film Storage Building

Kennedy Space Center, Florida

In FY 2004, a solar thermal pilot project was completed at the Film Storage Building at Kennedy Space Center. This building has unique temperature and relative humidity requirements due to storage of microfilm, photographic records, and computer media associated with shuttle and historic Apollo moon missions. About 80 percent of the building's electrical load is used by the HVAC system for cooling and dehumidification of conditioned storage space. With the existing system, process air used to cool the space is dehumidified as it is blown through a bed of dry silica desiccant. The desiccant removes the moisture from the process air stream, and after a certain period of time becomes saturated and requires drying. The project used ten evacuated tube solar collectors to produce the heat required to evaporate moisture from the desiccant, thereby displacing the need for the 19 kilowatt electrical heating element and saving 196 million Btu annually. More importantly, the project showed that solar energy is a viable heat source for the regenerating process of a desiccant dehumidification system and increased awareness of this replicable renewable conservation measure.

Melinda Humphrey Becker
Sheryl Kolasinki
Fernando Pascal
Derek Ross
Ira Rubinoff
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute

Bocas del Toro Research Station, Panama

In FY 2004, the new 7,500-square-foot Bocas del Toro Research Station opened as part of Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. It is used year-round for the research of the ecology, behavior, and evolution of tropical organisms. A 38 kilowatt photovoltaic roof is integrated into the low-impact design of the building, producing 75 percent of the building's energy or close to 70 megawatt-hours annually. The PV system also provides interior shading and acts as a rainwater collection system. The roof profile directs rainfall into a 4,000 gallon storage tank where the water is filtered and treated with ultra-violet light. This system, along with low-flow plumbing and a planned man-made wetland to treat grey water, is estimated to save 55,000 gallons of water annually. Additional sustainable features include habitat restoration of an adjacent pond, reduction of impervious pavement, site impact minimization, daylighting, and the use of locally-harvested, low-VOC building materials.

Energy Security and Reliability Award to a Small Group

Michael Boyd
Ron Durfey
United States Marine Corps
Marine Corps Air Station Yuma

Yuma, Arizona

In FY 2004, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma installed approximately one mile of solar lighting to illuminate a perimeter fence and multi-use pathway, increasing the safety and security for military personnel, their families, and visitors walking, running, or bicycling between the Air Station and the City of Yuma. The project also provides security of the fence line, allowing security personnel to more easily identify unauthorized individuals along the lighted perimeter or determine if the fence line has been compromised. The solar lighting project replaced a proposed project to install permanent electrical wiring and compact fluorescent lighting. The renewable option was chosen not only to reduce the overall cost for construction and future energy and maintenance costs, but to assure its functional reliability in the event of an electrical power outage. The solar project saved more than $540,000 in construction, labor, and materials costs over the non-renewable option, and will avoid almost 41 million Btu annually.

Energy Efficiency/Energy Program Management Awards to Organizations

Department of the Army
Fort Lewis

Fort Lewis, Washington

Fort Lewis developed and implemented several key energy projects in FY 2004, reducing their energy use by 19 percent below the 1985 baseline. An ESPC project initiated in FY 2003 consisted of several energy conservation measures including: zone setback controls and space heating infrastructure upgrades; new control valves for heating, steam, and domestic hot water applications; and added insulation to exposed heating and hot water distribution systems. Load assessments at six key buildings, funded by the Department of Energy, identified additional low-cost energy savings opportunities such as repairing dampers, adjusting heating schedules, and tuning boilers. The Public Works staff implemented the recommended measures, while also converting incandescent traffic lights to LED technology throughout the installation. Finally, Fort Lewis is engaged in a comprehensive sustainability program that in FY 2004 included the installation's first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED™) facilities, increased use of alternative fueled vehicles, and purchase of 12 gigawatt-hours of green power—equal to six percent of FY 2004 electricity consumption. Projects implemented in FY 2004 saved $500,000 and almost 50 billion Btu.

U.S. Department of the Interior
U.S. Geological Survey National Center

Reston, Virginia

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Office of Management Services developed a highly successful energy program that has resulted in a 31 percent reduction in energy consumption at the USGS National Center as compared to the FY 1985 baseline. Their successful program focuses on project implementation, operations and maintenance (O&M) improvements, and employee participation. Using O&M and utility energy services contracts, USGS implemented numerous measures to offset increased energy use from new construction. These measures included developing stringent standard operating procedures and minimizing equipment run-time hours, upgrading equipment and lighting with high-efficiency units, and installing a solar thermal heating system and solar outdoor lighting. In FY 2004 alone, USGS completed energy and water efficiency projects resulting in savings of $56,000 and 9 billion Btu—a 5 percent decrease from FY 2003. These projects included installation of a plate-and-frame heat exchanger to provide free cooling during temperate and winter months, replacement of leaky underground steam and condensate piping, and replacement of air handling unit chilled water coils.

Department of the Navy
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

In FY 2004, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard reduced energy consumption by more than 12 percent from the previous year. This was accomplished largely through the second phase of an energy savings performance contract project to modernize the existing central steam plant. Three major power plant components were installed: a 5.5-megawatt dual-fuel combustion turbine cogeneration system, two boilers, and two 2-megawatt diesel generators. The project also included consolidation of the Shipyard's heating system, a complete decommissioning of the existing boiler plant system, repairs to the compressed air system, and Shipyard-wide lighting upgrades. Additionally, two solar photovoltaic panels were installed to provide backup power to the emergency communication system. These measures saved $4.4 million and almost 118 billion Btu in FY 2004, as well as increasing overall efficiency and streamlined plant operations, decreasing maintenance costs, improving reliability of existing power systems, and eliminating more than $19 million in future repair and replacement of old systems.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
VA Midwest Health Care Network

Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Veterans Integrated Service Network 23 service area used a two-phased energy savings performance contract to fund $14 million in capital improvements for energy and water efficiency, replacement of aging infrastructure, and enhanced energy security in three VA Medical Centers in South Dakota and Minnesota. The first phase of the contract completed in FY 2003 implemented necessary infrastructure improvements including replacing hundreds of windows and light fixtures and installing 40 efficient boilers. The second phase upgraded the building management system and modified the HVAC system, and included recommissioning the energy systems, installing direct digital controls and variable frequency drives, and replacing steam traps. Additionally, a 2-megawatt generator installed at the Sioux Falls facility is cutting peak load costs and providing secure back-up power for the medical center. These projects saved $1.3 million and more than 151 billion Btu in FY 2004, and will yield total guaranteed savings of $26.8 million over the life of the projects.

Energy Efficiency/Energy Program Management Awards to Small Groups

Chris Helmer
Arun Jhaveri
Michael Okoro
Rick Thomas
Jeff Truax
U.S. General Services Administration
Northwest/Arctic Region

Seattle, Washington

The design of the new United States Courthouse in Seattle, Washington includes many energy efficient and sustainable design features. The building's southern orientation brings in natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The design also incorporates energy efficient lamps and ballasts, a natural ventilation system, low-flow plumbing fixtures, high-performance glazing, and low-maintenance landscaping. An additional $1.5 million in funding was provided through an energy savings performance contract to incorporate high performance equipment and energy systems that would not otherwise have been included. Upgrades included direct digital controls for HVAC, lighting, alarm, and life safety systems; lighting occupancy sensors; variable frequency drives; and chiller plant improvements. GSA also partnered with Seattle City Light, the Department of Energy, and the Bonneville Power Administration to install a 1.5-kilowatt photovoltaic system on the building's lower roof as part of a demonstration project funded by the City of Seattle. Annual savings from the base design features and ESPC upgrades are estimated at $300,000 and 16.5 billion Btu.

Guy Borges
Rhonda Stewart
Brad Wheeler
Department of the Navy
Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport

Newport, Rhode Island

The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport implemented two new projects in FY 2004 that helped reduce energy use by 7 percent since FY 2003 and 54 percent below the FY 1985 baseline. Variable frequency drives were installed on motors for variable torque loads to reduce energy demand for ventilation. The project also links air handler operation to building occupant load measurements, improving indoor air quality. An HVAC upgrades project consisted of controls upgrades, elimination of heat-cool conflicts, and installation of new technology chillers. Together these projects will produce annual savings of almost $135,000 and 4 billion Btu. Initiatives funded by the Center included free cooling, variable frequency drives, and lighting control systems, which will save an additional $118,000 and 3.5 billion Btu annually. Newport reduced its electrical load and petroleum use by installing direct digital control systems, implementing temperature setbacks, and reducing heating/cooling system conflicts. They also conducted surveys of facility infrastructure and energy-intensive functions, identifying potential projects that will save an additional $256,000.

Exceptional Service Awards to Individuals

Alvin Day
United States Air Force

Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida

By developing innovative strategies and motivating energy managers, Al Day has had a profound effect on the Air Force Renewable Energy Program, currently leading the federal government in procuring renewable electricity. In 2003 he spearheaded the purchase of 40 percent of the government's renewable power—more than 207 gigawatt-hours. Continued efforts in 2004 resulted in contracts for 342 gigawatt-hours. He has been instrumental in encouraging contracts with renewable options, including assisting two Air Force Bases in purchasing renewable power for 100 percent of their electric consumption. Mr. Day also worked to develop regional acquisition strategies, guided development of two wind generation projects, and promoted renewable energy use through government and industry meetings and publications. Additionally, Mr. Day has led the Air Force Facility Energy Program to meet mandated energy goals by establishing forward-thinking programs and providing energy managers with the tools and direction to enhance their capabilities. During FY 2004, Mr. Day developed a new energy savings performance contract (ESPC) guidance module on the Air Force Civil Engineer Support Agency Web site and helped the Air Force award five task orders worth in excess of $9 million. He also developed its first Air Force-wide energy newsletter and initiated the first energy awards program.

Ellie Sexton
Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center

Port Hueneme, California

Ellie Sexton single-handedly revitalized the Navy's energy awareness and awards program, which is now flourishing like never before. In order to properly educate and inform Navy personnel about energy efficiency, Ms. Sexton expanded the program and enhanced its visibility through her innovation and creativity. New compact disks provide policy, publications, and program execution tips for energy managers, as well as materials to involve and educate youth. The program hosts numerous awareness events on and off Base, with promotional materials and an exhibit summarizing Navy accomplishments. Ms. Sexton was involved in developing new campaign themes and messages that ultimately were responsible for cementing energy awareness as a vital part of the Navy's overall program. She has managed the Secretary of the Navy Energy Awards program for the past seven years, expanding the program to increase participation and provide additional levels of recognition. Ms. Sexton also maintains the Navy's energy Web site, which includes their energy business plan, information and tips for accomplishing a successful energy program, technical information, on-line progress reporting, energy project status, and recognition of award winners. In addition to her outreach efforts, Ms. Sexton helped the Navy establish its 1975 and 1985 energy baselines and has managed quality assurance and coordination of Navy energy reporting for more than 10 years.