The Marine Corps plans to make its logistics base in Albany, Ga., the nation’s first net zero energy military base.
The project will reduce energy use, increase energy security, and meet energy demands from renewable sources. The project will include a ground source heat pump system, an 8.5-megawatt biomass-fueled, steam-to-electricity (STE) generator, high-efficiency transformers, lighting and boiler upgrades, system controls for a landfill gas electricity generator, and centralized monitoring and operation of electricity generation and distribution.
Base officials estimate efficiency measures will reduce total annual electrical consumption by 15% (7,200 megawatt-hours) annually. The base will achieve net zero status as annual energy demand will be fully met by renewable energy produced on site.
The base is comprised of 3,600 acres, nearly 400 facilities, and Marine Corps-owned and operated utility systems. Achieving net zero will be possible with the availability of renewable energy steam supply that the base will buy from a 50-megawatt biomass plant located at Procter & Gamble’s neighboring facility.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2016
Ontario planning to spend $7 billion on wide-ranging climate change plan
Includes financial incentives to retrofit buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2016
Facility managers say Internet of Things, analytics will impact maintenance soon
More reliable data needed for optimal results from the technology.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2016
Industry leaders call for wider use of bamboo as a building material
Benefits include seismic resiliency and sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2016
Asphalt roofing group publishes updated shingle installation guide
Technical manual provides best practices for roofing professionals.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2016
EPA proposes new stormwater discharge regulations for construction sites
Would apply to sites of one or more acres.
Roofing | May 16, 2016
New guide focused on increasing energy and structural performance with raised-heel trusses
Higher trusses simplify attic ventilation, leave more space for insulation.
Codes and Standards | May 11, 2016
Current California seismic codes provide safety, resiliency, but needed upgrades present challenge
Los Angeles requires seismic retrofits, but other cities do not.
Codes and Standards | May 10, 2016
Apple spars with Cupertino, Calif., mayor over strained city infrastructure
Apple’s new ‘spaceship’ campus project prompts questions about whether the company should pay more to offset traffic woes.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
Safety Stand-Down yields proposals to boost construction safety
One example: Gilbane encourages safety harnesses for all working above 6 feet.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
EcoDistricts unveils sustainable neighborhood framework
Focus is on equity, resilience, and climate protection.