Information was extracted from the following ALL NAVACTS message sent by Rear Adm. Frank Ponds, commander of Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, on Jan. 26:
The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires [Navy] Region Hawaii to achieve a 21 percent energy reduction in fiscal year 2012.
Leadership from all commands, large and small, are strongly urged to review and re-energize the following conservation policies for information technology (IT) systems.
Air conditioning (A/C) shall be set no lower than 76 degrees Fahrenheit in server rooms and Navy/Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI) points of presences (POP), or intermediate distribution frame (IDF) rooms.
You’re wondering when you should turn off your computer for energy savings? Here are some general guidelines to help you make that decision:
* Shut down computers at the end of each work day, or if the computer will be unused for more than two hours. This includes both NMCI and non-NMCI computers such as MWR kiosks and standalone systems. Computers also produce heat, so turning them off reduces building cooling loads.
* Shut down computer peripherals. Computer monitors, speakers, external hard drives and printers should be plugged into a power strip that can be easily turned off at the end of the work day, or when peripherals will be unused for more than two hours. Turn off the switch on the power strip to prevent them from drawing power even when shut off. If you don’t use a power strip, unplug extra equipment when it’s not in use.
* Equipment that requires standby capability, such as fax machines and computer network support equipment, should be programmed to use power save/standby options.
* As much as possible, select energy-star rated or energy efficient equipment for use.
* Reduce IT equipment whenever possible. Example: Are two printers located in the same office required?
It is our obligation, especially in this fiscal environment, for each of us to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and our environment. We must be sensitive to the limited energy resources available and the environmental and fiscal impacts of overuse. By following prescribed policies, we will significantly impact and reduce Navy Region Hawaii energy usage.
Mahalo for your continued efforts to ensure that we build a strong energy conservation culture throughout Navy Region Hawaii.