Eielson's Operation Change Out a glowing success

  • Published
  • By Robin Liggett and Tyler Minnish
  • 354th Civil Engineer Squadron
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Eielson AFB residents who recently participated in the two day Operation Change Out campaign have a lot to be excited about. The energy awareness and conservation initiative was a resounding success with residents exchanging nearly 1,400 old incandescent bulbs for new, energy efficient compact florescent light bulbs. This effort alone will save Eielson an estimated $130,829 -- roughly 612,000 kilowatt hours, over these CFLs lifetime.

Originally started in April 2008, Operation Change Out's objective is to promote energy awareness amongst military members by distributing free energy-efficient CFLs to base residents. This joint effort between the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Department of Energy has dispensed over 880,500 CFLs since its inception. The use of more energy efficient lighting goes hand in hand with Eielson's commitment to address concerns over rising energy costs and federal mandates for stricter energy conservation.

CFLs also have these additional benefits:
-- Last up to 10 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs
-- Use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs
-- Save about $30 or more in electricity costs over each individual bulb's lifetime
-- Are available in different sizes and shapes to fit in almost any fixture, indoors or outdoors
-- Produce about 75 percent less heat, so they're safer to operate and can cut home cooling costs

Base residents were able to exchange their incandescent bulbs at booths located at the Eielson BX and dormitories on May 26 and 27. While the CFL exchange was only available to base residents, the Commissary also arranged for discounts of select CFL products, with additional coupons provided at the Operation Change Out booths,. Participating residents were also entered into a drawing for prizes such as Commissary gift certificates, local restaurant giveaways, free months of Netflix, and other exciting prizes.

Hundreds of Airmen and their families visited these locations including Col. Karlton Johnson, 354th Mission Support Group commander.

"We are proud to participate in Operation Change Out, an important program that encourages everyone--military families and unaccompanied personnel alike--to join in this simple, yet highly effective measure that will make a long-term impact on our environment. I urge each participant to change your light bulbs now," said Capt. David Masuck, 354th Civil Engineer Squadron Energy and Utilities Manager.

Residents who were unable to attend Operation Change Out or would simply like to purchase additional CFLs can find a $1 off coupon for Sylvania CFLs (available at the Eielson Commissary) online at: http://www.sylvania.com/ConsumerProducts/LightingForHome/CouponsAndRebates/default.htm

The 354th CES would like to thank Eielson residents for helping to make Operation Change Out such a huge success. Without your support and participation none of this would have been possible. A special thank you also goes out to Operation Change Out supporters: Benny's Grill, Thai Cuisine Restaurant, Eielson BX, Eielson Commissary, Pagoda Restaurant, The Cookie Jar and Netflix.

While Operation Change Out may be over, Eielson residents may look forward to other energy conservation initiatives in the future. Remember, by using energy wisely the military can access the cheapest and cleanest source of new energy - the energy we waste each and every day.