Two Air Force Office of Energy Assurance teams earned top honors from the Federal Energy Management Program for energy efficiency and resilience at installations in New Jersey and Japan.
The OEA teams supporting Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, and Yokota Air Base, Japan, received “Small Group” awards for infrastructure projects that delivered major savings, improved energy security, and reduced environmental impact. Both teams used Energy Saving Performance Contracts (ESPCs) to build systems that support mission continuity. OEA is an Air Force Civil Engineer Center directorate.
At JBMDL, a $48 million ESPC installed 17.8 megawatts of rooftop solar and later added 13.7 megawatts of ground-mounted solar, 4 megawatts of natural gas generation, and battery storage. The project integrated Transition Renewable Energy Credits, generating over $2 million in annual revenue for 15 years—totaling an estimated $34 million. In fiscal year 2023, JBMDL produced 22.6 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy and saved 27.5 million, reducing energy use by 22 percent and eliminating 5,000 tons of carbon emissions. Full implementation is projected to cut 41,000 tons annually.
Yokota AB used a $167 million ESPC to build a 10.72-megawatt natural gas co-generation plant that supplies electricity and steam and operates independently from Japan’s power grid. A 2023 “black start” test confirmed island-mode capabilities. The team also upgraded over 600 facilities with energy-efficient systems, saving 57.5 million kilowatt-hours and 22,000 thousand gallons of water.
AFCEC energy directorate project lead Michael Ringenberg said the teams combined innovation with long-term strategy.
“We’re honored by this recognition. Our teams hope these projects inspire installations to prioritize resilient energy infrastructure and smarter planning across the Air Force,” he said.