‘Culture Change’ needed for energy conservation Published July 23, 2010 By Brig. Gen. Ed Wilson Patrick AFB, Fla. -- Let's face it. Summer in Florida is hot. Very hot. So, the tendency is to turn down the AC to cool off. While this is the right thing to do at the moment, is it really the right thing to do for our finances? The answer is no. We need to look at ways of conversing energy, not only because it saves us money, but because it helps our nation become less dependent on energy sources that may not be best for the environment. What we really need is an inclusive "Culture Change" from everyone here to make this command-mandated initiative work. This is a must do. Energy conservation is the foundation of energy independence, as the old saying goes. And even though we are asking every squadron commander to take this effort seriously, every single one of us can do something to reduce our energy consumption. It can start with little things. See about raising the thermostat in your work areas by a degree or two. You don't think that will make a difference? Think again. Ask the experts who manage the hundreds of buildings we take care of around here. I think the projected savings would surprise you. And does one office really need multiple coffee-makers, refrigerators and microwaves? Think about it. If each and every one of us made one small concession to help get our energy consumption under control, the differences (especially in our electric bill we pay each month) could be astronomical. When you leave work, unplug the unused electric equipment. Sure, that little fan you use to cool you off may not make a big difference in itself, but multiply your effort by thousands of energy-conscious people like you and let's see where we end up. I think we all know the old story about "how does one go about eating an elephant?" The answer to that question is the same as how we'll get this energy situation under control: One bite at a time. Without trying to be too dramatic, one thing is clear when it comes to energy conservation all throughout the Department of Defense - the "hammer" is about to fall. Let's do everything we can right now - today - to soften the blow. We can't do it without your help. All of you.