Energy-saving program needs catchy new name Published July 30, 2009 Keesler Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS -- What's in a name? Sometimes everything. The 81st Training Wing needs your help in coming up with a new name for the plug load reduction program. "The name 'plug load' is an accurate, yet forgettable term that accounts for up to 25 percent of the electrical energy consumed in an office setting or educational facility," said Marcy Whitfield, Keesler's resource efficiency manager. "The real goal here is to find a new 'catchy' name than will connect with people, create a sense of ownership and remind them that saving energy can be a part of their daily routine." The plug load program includes power consumed by devices that plug into a facility's electrical system. This includes TVs, VCRs/DVD players, monitors, printers, electronics and other office equipment. In short, any electrical equipment that is plugged into a wall outlet can be considered a plug load. The person who comes up with the winning name receives a free half-day boat rental from outdoor recreation. Suggestions are submitted to Airman 1st Class David Salanitri at david.salanitri@ keesler.af.mil. The last day for submission is Aug. 30. The top 10 suggestions is voted on by wing senior leadership and a winner is announced Sept. 14. "Many people think turning on a power save button at night will do the trick, but studies show that's not always the case," said Ms. Whitfield. "Any electronic equipment plugged into an outlet with an instant 'on' switch, has a digital or LED clock, or has a small transformer to provide direct current power to operate contains a phantom energy load. These devices consume between 1 and 25 watts an hour every hour they are plugged in, even when they are not in use." For example, a single VCR left plugged in over a four year time frame wastes $11. With thousands of these types of electronics on a base, thousands of kilotwatt hours of electricity are being consumed without mission benefit. Using power strips to connect phantom load devices to a power source will disconnect devices with a switch, eliminating the phantom load at the end of the work day. The yet-to-be-named plug load reduction program will include turning off lights when spaces are not in use, enabling a power save mode on office equipment during office hours and shutting equipment off, preferably by unplugging or utilizing a power strip, during non-working hours. Of course, computers, vending machines and refrigerators should not be unplugged. Accountability will be a chief concern through random off hours auditing and score cards delivered to leadership reflecting a unit's adherence to the program.