The article discusses the U.S. Army's efforts to improve energy efficiency and security through various initiatives and programs. It outlines the Installation Management Command's (IMCOM) energy management programs that garrisons are implementing, including appointing energy managers, conducting energy audits, and implementing energy savings projects. It also discusses the Army's net-zero strategy and pilot installations working towards net-zero energy, water, and waste. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is providing technical expertise and solutions to help the Army meet energy and sustainability goals and legislative requirements.

1. Public Works
D I G E S T
Volume XXIII, No. 5
September/October 2011
This Issue:
Energy and Water
Energy and Water
Management 3
Successes 18
Technical
Support 26
Afghanistan
Insights 32
Professional
Development 36
Who’s Who 42
The solar panels at Sandhills Utility Services, one of several renewable
energy initiatives at Fort Bragg, N.C., provide 6,500 kilowatt hours to the
installation per year. Photo by Paul Hora. Page 23.

2. Public Works
D I G E S T
Energy and Water Management ________________________________________________________
Volume XXI, No.5, 3 IMCOM moving forward with energy efficiency, security plans, by Joe Capps
Volume XXIII, No.5
September/October 2009
September/October 2011 5 Corps offers expertise, solutions to support Army’s Energy Program, by Stacey K. Hirata
6 Army presents energy, water management awards, by David Purcell
7 Net-zero pilot installations meet, by Doug Waters
8 Energy awareness and conservation assessments identify quick fixes, by Ralph Totorica
9 Who wants free money?, by Clive Rountree
10 Strategy for funding energy and utility projects, by Qaiser Toor
12 Achieving energy effectiveness, net zero – It takes a master plan, by Jerry Zekert
U.S. Army Installation 13 Moving toward net zero: Role of master planning, by Mark L. Gillem
Management Command 14 Not white, not black, but gray – water, that is, by Richard Scholze
2405 Gun Shed Road 15 Spend it like it’s yours, by Deborah Lamb-Boatwright
Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-1223
16 Army designs to sustainable standards for medical facilities, by Richard D. Grulich
17 Army holds energy manager training in Cincinnati, by David Purcell
Public Works Digest is an unofficial
publication of the U.S. Army Installation Successes _________________________________________________________________________________________
Management Command, under AR 360-
18 Fort Benning tests small wind turbines to boost renewable energy, by Vince Little
1, The Army Public Affairs Program.
Method of reproduction: photo-offset; 19 Fort Sam Houston steps up to energy conservation, by Jerry McCall
press run: 1,600; estimated readership: 20 Fort Carson builds toward energy, water, waste goals, by Andrea Sutherland
40,000. Editorial views and opinions 21 Fort Hood wins energy and water management award, by Christine Luciano
expressed are not necessarily those of 22 Fort Buchanan’s islandwide approach for sustainability, by Anibal Negron
the Department of the Army. Mention
23 Fort Bragg draws on solar technologies for net-zero initiative, by Jonelle Thompson
of specific vendors does not constitute
endorsement by the Department of the
24 Corps builds sustainable distribution center for DLA in Europe, by Jennifer H. Aldridge
Army or any element thereof. 25 Iowa Army Ammunition Plant welcomes steam plant upgrades, by Alessandra E. Brown
Address mail to:
U.S. Army Installation Management
Technical Support _____________________________________________________________________________
Command 26 Tool supports master planning for net-zero installations, by Dana Finney
2405 Gun Shed Road 27 Fort Bragg: Ozone levels pose no threat to prescribed burn program, by Dana Finney
Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-1223 28 Net zero offers chance for updated water model to show value added, by Paul Landgraff
Attn: Editor, Public Works Digest 29 Bulletin provides help for managing winter annual grasses, by Ryan Busby
30 White paper explores challenges in achieving net-zero water, by Elisabeth Jenicek
Telephone: 202-761-0022 DSN 763
FAX: 202-761-4169 31 Treating landfill leachate with microbial mats: Not recommended, by Gary Gerdes
e-mail:
mary.b.thompson@usace.army.mil
Afghanistan Insights _________________________________________________________________________
Gregg Chislett 32 Improving power supply in southern Afghanistan: A project view, by Joan F. Kibler
Chief, Public Works Division 34 Managing construction in Afghanistan: A project manager’s experience, by Jenn Domashevich
Installation Management Command 35 Developing Afghan facility engineering: A leadership perspective, by Lt. Col. Ted Bernhard
Mary Beth Thompson
Managing Editor Professional Development _________________________________________________________________
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
36 Career development: Breaking your own glass ceiling, part 3, by Jim Hearn
37 Directorate of Public Works training curriculum at a glance, by Gustavo (Gus) E. De Jesus
39 Federal planning organization to convene regional workshop, by Mark L. Gillem
40 Master Planning Institute announces 2012 course schedule, by Andrea Wohlfeld Kuhn
Printed on recycled paper. 41 Training essential for energy and water efficiency planning, by Mark L. Gillem
Who’s Who ______________________________________________________________________________________
42 Toor is chief of Energy and Utilities, by Mary Beth Thompson
43 Army energy managers earn national certification, by Ralph Totorica
2 PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

3. Energy and Water Management
IMCOM moving forward with energy efficiency, security plans
by Joe Capps
R
eliable access to affordable, stable Acronyms and Abbreviations
energy supplies is a significant IMCOM Installation Management Command
challenge for the Army and the
and Unit Energy Conservation Officer
nation. The Army relies on energy, and
programs. Examples are at https://www.
disruption of critical power and fuel
us.army.mil/suite/doc/32993110.
supplies would harm the Army’s ability to
accomplish its missions. The scarcity of • Provide at least quarterly energy train-
low-cost energy poses a risk and exposes a ing and awareness for installation and
vulnerability that must be addressed by a community personnel. Take advantage
more secure energy position and outlook. of opportunities to promote energy con-
servation awareness through command
The Army’s assumptions concerning
channels and community activities during
future plans for power and fuel at home, Joe Capps annual Energy Awareness Month and
overseas and on the battlefield must U.S. Army photo
Earth Week.
account for such challenges. To address
sustainable and resilient infrastructure and • Develop an energy security plan and
these energy security challenges, the
mission assurance. update plans annually based on a review
secretary of the Army issued the Army
Energy Security Implementation Strategy with local utility suppliers. A sample
Garrison energy and water template is at https://www.us.army.mil/
with five strategic energy goals: management programs suite/doc/32993146.
• reduced energy consumption, In addition, IMCOM issued an energy
• Enter accurate energy data monthly
• increased energy efficiency across plat- Operations Order, 10-257, that puts in
and water data quarterly into the Army
forms and facilities, play a broad range of actions to move us
Energy and Water Reporting System and
• increased use of renewable and alternative toward achieving the objectives set for us conduct monthly quality-control checks.
energy, by the secretary of the Army to improve
Provide a quarterly certification of data
our energy security posture. All IMCOM
• assured access to sufficient energy sup- completeness to region energy manager.
garrisons are implementing garrison
plies, and • Submit a complete annual energy report
Energy and Water Management programs,
• reduced adverse impacts on the which include the following actions: each year in October.
environment. • Nominate worthy projects, individuals
• Appoint in writing full-time garrison
These goals incorporate the fundamental and teams for Secretary of the Army Ener-
energy managers and input contact infor-
principle that the improvements achieved gy and Water Management Awards and
mation in the Army Energy and Water
will not lead to reductions in operational Federal Energy and Water Management
Reporting System. Garrison command-
capability or the ability to carry out awards. ➤
ers will ensure their energy managers are
primary missions.
knowledgeable and trained.
Army Energy Security Vision
Installation Management Campaign • Include energy and water conservation
An effective and innovative Army
Plan responsibilities in position descriptions
energy posture, which enhances and
The Installation Management of commanders, directors and other key
ensures mission success and quality of
Command is moving its energy program positions that impact energy manage-
life for our Soldiers, Civilians and their
forward with implementation of the ment to ensure compliance with federal
Families through leadership, partnership
Installation Management Campaign legislation, executive orders, the imple-
and ownership, and also serves as a
Plan, which includes a specific Line of mentation strategy and the campaign
model for the nation.
Effort focused on energy to address the plan.
overall Army energy security strategy. • Establish a garrison energy steering com- Army Energy Security Mission
The intent of the campaign plan’s energy mittee composed of energy managers Make energy a consideration for
Line of Effort is to maintain energy- and and garrison organizations or units to all Army activities to reduce demand,
water-efficient installations by holding meet quarterly, review energy and water increase efficiency, seek alternative
users accountable, modernizing facilities, consumption activities, evaluate goals sources and create a culture of energy
installing new technologies and leveraging and objectives, and develop improvement accountability while sustaining or
partnerships that will provide an increased strategies. enhancing operational capabilities.
level of energy security leading to • Implement Building Energy Monitor
PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 3

4. (continued from previous page) • Implement energy and water saving able energy or from geothermal water
• Review all new construction and repair projects that have a simple payback of 10 sources.
project plans and specifications for com- years or fewer. • Disposal is the final step and last resort
pliance with appropriate energy policies. • Use alternate funding sources such as after the last drop of water, the last bit
Projects must include life-cycle cost- Energy Savings Performance Contracts, of thermal energy and all other waste
effective energy- and water-conservation Utility Energy Services Contracts and mitigation strategies have been fully
measures. the Energy Conservation Investment exercised.
• Ensure new construction and major Program to help fund at least one project
Net-zero pilot installations
repair and renovation projects greater that cannot be self-funded annually.
The Army approach is to identify and
than $7.5 million incorporate sustain- • Reduce vehicle fleet petroleum use 30
work with six installations to achieve net-
able design principles to achieve a mini- percent by 2020 using 2005 as the base
zero energy, six installations to achieve
mum of the Silver level of Leadership year as required by Executive Order
net-zero waste, six installations to achieve
in Energy and Environmental Design 13514, Federal Leadership in Environ-
net-zero water and two installations to
certification. mental, Energy and Economic Performance.
achieve all three by 2020. The Army goal is
• Ensure all designs reduce energy con- Garrisons should develop a petroleum
to have 25 net-zero -installations by 2030.
sumption by 30 percent below the levels fuel reduction strategy that includes
established by American Society of Heat- replacing fossil fuel vehicles with alterna- The net-zero pilot installations are:
ing, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning tive fuel vehicles and electric vehicles, Net-zero energy: Fort Bliss, Texas; Fort
Engineers’ Standard 90.1. maximizing use of mass transit and Carson, Colo.; Fort Detrick, Md.; Fort
• Perform annual energy audits of at least shuttle buses, and installing alternative Hunter Liggett, Calif.; Kwajalein Atoll,
25 percent of the garrison facilities’ or renewable refueling infrastructure to Republic of the Marshall Islands; Parks
total square footage to evaluate energy encourage alternative and electric vehicle Reserve Forces Training Area, Calif.;
usage and determine the best locations use. Sierra Army Depot, Calif.; U.S. Military
to incorporate energy savings measures. Academy, West Point, N.Y.; Oregon Army
Army net-zero strategy
Energy audit guidance can be found in National Guard.
Another component of the Army’s
the Department of Defense Energy Man- energy security strategy is to appropriately Net-zero water: Fort Bliss; Fort Carson;
ager’s Handbook at http://www.acq.osd.mil/ manage our natural resources with a Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md.; Camp
ie/energy/mgr_support.shtml. net-zero strategy. A net-zero strategy Rilea, Ore.; Fort Buchanan, Puerto
• Implement all no-cost and low-cost mea- addresses energy, water and waste at Army Rico; Fort Riley, Kan.; Joint Base Lewis-
sures as detailed in https://www.us.army. installations and comprises five interrelated McChord, Wash.; Tobyhanna Army
mil/suite/doc/32993193. steps: Depot, Pa.
• Reduction includes maximizing Net-zero waste: Fort Bliss; Fort Carson;
energy efficiency in existing facili- Fort Detrick; Fort Hunter Liggett; Joint
ties, implementing water conservation Base Lewis-McChord; Fort Hood, Texas;
practices and eliminating generation of Fort Polk, La.; U.S. Army Garrison
unnecessary waste. Grafenwoehr, Germany.
• Repurposing involves diverting IMCOM Headquarters, regions and
energy, water or waste to a secondary garrisons are working together to develop
purpose with limited processes. garrison action plans, staff energy teams,
• Recycling or composting involves implement energy conservation projects
management of the solid waste stream, and monitor project progress to achieve the
development of closed loop systems energy goals and objectives set for us by
to reclaim water or cogeneration with the secretary of the Army to improve our
which two forms of energy — heat energy security posture.
and electricity — are created from one
Joe Capps is the executive director, IMCOM.
source.
• Recovery occurs from converting
unusable waste to energy, from renew-
4 PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

5. Corps offers expertise, solutions to support Army’s Energy Program
by Stacey K. Hirata
A
s the Army works to strengthen its Acronyms and Abbreviations
commitment to energy and water USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
conservation, efficiency and security,
as well as meet the numerous energy and posted a $5 billion sources-sought
and sustainability legislative mandates, solicitation to ascertain the level of private
executive orders and policies, it looks to sector interest. At the solicitation’s close,
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for USACE had heard from more than 150
technical expertise and solutions. Whether firms.
to deal with legislative requirements or Net-zero and other initiatives
Army policies, the Corps continues to step Although most of the legislative
up to the challenge. requirements have been incorporated in
Stacey K. Hirata USACE projects, the Corps continues
Enterprise approach Photo by F.T. Eyre
The requirement to conserve energy to work with the Office of the Assistant
intertwines with today’s challenge to allows planners to provide direction on Secretary of the Army for Installations,
build sustainable installations. Energy and repurposing existing facilities, reducing Energy and Environment, the Installation
sustainability programs, like other broad energy distribution losses and minimizing Management Command and the Office of
efforts, require a comprehensive approach. the use of vehicles. the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation
The Corps’ holistic method supports the The planning effort is the first step in Management to enhance the Army’s
Army’s needs by first taking an enterprise a comprehensive approach to meeting energy posture.
approach to master planning. From initial the Army’s goal — energy independence. Representatives from the Corps’
planning and visioning efforts, the garrison Developing and incorporating renewable Headquarters, the Engineering and
commander and installation stakeholders energy sources into the Army’s energy plan Support Center Huntsville and the
forge a broad vision and set planning will play a significant role in whether we Construction Engineering Research
principles that guide installation planning, can realistically reduce our dependence on Laboratory worked with the Office of the
including energy planning. fossil fuel and foreign oil. Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army
USACE and the Installation Since the beginning of fiscal 2011, the for Energy and Sustainability to develop
Management Command make energy Army has worked to develop renewable criteria for identifying the Army’s net-
conservation a major consideration energy projects where appropriate on its zero energy, water and waste installations.
in installation master planning by installations. As the Army strengthens USACE representatives also helped
emphasizing energy-efficient building its renewable energy portfolio, the Corps provide training to installation energy
design and installation development. We continues to play a significant role in the managers from the net-zero installations.
have established integrated planning and work. USACE is instrumental in implementing
development practices for consistent, many other energy initiatives. For example,
energy-efficient, sustainable development. Energy Initiatives Office Huntsville Center is installing smart
On Aug. 10, Secretary of the Army John meters and working with the Network
As the Department of Defense,
McHugh announced that the Army is Command to ensure the connectivity
the Army and the other services are
standing up an Energy Initiatives Office and net worthiness of the meters to the
embracing sustainable energy-efficient
Task Force, which will be responsible for central data system. Headquarters USACE
planning practices, USACE is assisting
identifying industrial-scale renewable is actively working to establish regional
installations transition to more compact
energy projects that will produce in excess energy centers of expertise to ensure
development using area development
of 200 megawatts of energy. USACE will technical and programmatic expertise exist
plans and more regulated land use. Area
be instrumental in this effort by providing in every region. We issued an Engineering
development plans focus on designated
technical, contractual and program Construction Bulletin directing districts to
districts on installations, define the built-
management support. incorporate identified energy enhancement
out development plans for the districts and
identify the specific planning pattern to The Corps assisted with the features into their projects if project
achieve energy efficiency and sustainability development of the Energy Initiatives schedules and life-cycle costs analyses
while meeting both existing and unforeseen Office concept and is currently drafting indicate them to be an effective means for
missions in an organized method. an acquisition strategy. Through Federal reducing energy consumption.
Focusing on compact, regulated districts Business Opportunities, we developed ➤
PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 5

6. Army presents energy, water management awards
by David Purcell
T
he 33rd annual Secretary of the Army Small group awards Energy Efficiency/Energy Management
Energy and Water Management Energy Efficiency/Energy Management – – Bobby Lynn, Richard Strohl, Donald
Awards were given out Aug. 11 Jeffery Presgraves and Keith Pomraning, Clary, Huey Keaton and Cody Tippit,
at the Army Energy Manager Training Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. Fort Hood, Texas
Workshop in Cincinnati. Katherine Innovative/New Technology – Pat Walsh,
Hammack, assistant secretary of the Army Installation award
Pat Appelman, Warren Clifford, R.J. Water Conservation – Fort Stewart,
for installations, energy and environment, Dyrdek and Steven Fries, Fort Knox, Ky.
and Maj. Gen. Al Aycock, director of Ga., Denise Kelley, Randy Parks, Stanley
operations, Office of the Assistant Chief Energy Efficiency/Energy Management – Thomas, Tressa Rutland and Matthew
of Staff for Installation Management, Willimore Mack and Paul Lindemer, U.S, Bolen
presented the awards. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern, Germany
Individual award
Each winner received an engraved Renewable/Alternatives – John Hastings
Innovative/New Technology – Regina
plaque, a certificate and a monetary award. and Thomas Comyack, National Guard
Kranz, U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach,
The categories and award winners are: Training Center, Sea Girt, N.J.
Germany
Exceptional performance award
Energy Efficiency/Energy Management –
Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., Lt. Col. Charles
Koehler, John Costea, Richard Havrisko,
Michael Maier and Thomas Struble
POC is David Purcell, 571-256-9761, david.
purcell@us.army.mil
The Secretary of the Army Energy and Water Management Award awardees pose after the Aug. 11 ceremony
with Katherine Hammack, assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment, David Purcell is the chief, Army Energy and Utility
and Maj. Gen. Al Aycock, director of operations, Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Branch, Facilities Policy Division, OACSIM.
Management. Photo by Terry Shoemaker, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
(continued from previous page)
soared with the coming of subsidies and at which our finite water supplies cannot
Energy-water nexus the spread of irrigation to previously meet our water demands. Addressing this
Mechanical devices that employ water unfarmed areas. Economic development water-energy nexus — in the very near
have been used to produce energy since led to more construction and more future — is critical to that future.
ancient times, and that energy-water demand for energy and water resources. The Construction Engineering
nexus continues today. Roughly 8 percent Today, water is involved in energy Research Lab developed a tool kit, found
of fresh water withdrawals globally are production for thermoelectric cooling, at http://www.water-management-toolbox.
used for energy, according to 2008 data hydropower, mineral extraction and com/, to help understand this issue. It
from the World Economic Forum. Energy mining, and fossil and nonfossil fuel and provides laws, regulations, policies and
can account for 60 to 80 percent of water biofuel production and emission controls. federal guidelines on water management.
transportation and treatment costs and 14 Energy is used in potable water systems Also, Huntsville Center, as a part of its
percent of total water utility costs. to pump, transport, treat and desalinate. energy program, supports installations
Energy and water production are About 40 percent of water use in the with developing integrated energy and
clearly interconnected, but water’s effect United States goes for energy production, water management plans.
on energy and energy’s effect on water, the No. 2 use behind agriculture, When it comes to energy and water
historically, have been ignored. That view according to a 2005 U.S. Geological issues, USACE continues to be a source of
is rapidly changing. Survey report. both technical and programmatic expertise
Our country developed most of its Water and energy demands continue that provides solutions for our Army.
infrastructure, including its water and to increase, but water supplies are limited Building Strong!
energy resources, during the 20th century, and will be affected by degradation and
when the costs of water and energy climate change over time. If we remain Stacey K. Hirata is the chief, Installation Support,
remained low. Water use for agricultural on our current path, we will reach a point Headquarters USACE.
6 PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

7. Net-zero pilot installations meet
by Doug Waters
T
he Army’s 17 net-zero pilot were held separately for the
installations participated in a energy, water and waste
training event at Fort Detrick, Md., installations. Each installation
June 14-16. This workshop provided a made a short presentation
venue for the pilot installations to share describing its net-zero strategy
ideas and resources. and what assistance would
On April 19, at the Association of the be needed. Representatives
U.S. Army’s Installations Symposium from Department of Energy’s
in San Antonio, Assistant Secretary Pacific Northwest National
of the Army for Installations, Energy Laboratory and National
and Environment Katherine Hammack Renewable Energy Laboratory,
identified the pilot installations that will and the U.S. Army Corps of
strive to achieve net-zero energy, water, Engineers’ Engineering and
waste or all three by 2020. Support Center, Huntsville, A map displays the Army net-zero pilot installations. Graphic by
and Construction Engineering Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
The Net Zero Program’s goal is to Research Laboratory presented considerations and will assist in developing
ensure that the Army of tomorrow has ideas and information on sustainable information to support a site-specific
access to the fuel, water and land that it best practices and net-zero tools and NEPA analysis.
needs to execute its mission at a price it approaches.
can afford. This effort will improve the Net-zero energy installations are: Fort
energy security and sustainability of Army As part of the effort, the Office of Detrick; Fort Hunter-Liggett, Calif.; U.S.
installations and ensure the continuation the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Army Kwajalein Atoll; Parks Reserve
of vital military missions in the event of Installations, Energy and Environment Forces Training Area, Calif.; Sierra Army
energy or water utility grid disruptions. established a collaboration website Depot, Calif.; and the U.S. Military
The net-zero approach unifies all Army to allow pilot installations access to Academy, West Point, N.Y. Although not
actions to achieve multiple goals related technical resources, request assistance an installation per se, the Oregon National
to energy, waste, water and environmental and share successes. In addition, monthly Guard is also a net-zero energy participant
protection. coordination calls will be held with the for its statewide faclities.
net-zero pilot installations to provide Net-zero water installations are:
A net-zero energy installation will information on specific topics, training and
produce as much energy on site as it uses Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md.; Camp
approaches, and to share ideas. Rilea, Ore.; Fort Buchanan, Puerto
over the course of a year. A net-zero water
installation limits fresh water consumption Each installation is unique. No one-size- Rico; Fort Riley, Kan.; Joint Base Lewis-
while returning the water to its source so fits-all net-zero solutions exist. Installations McChord, Wash.; and Tobyhanna Army
as to not deplete the quantity or quality of will use a variety of net-zero strategies and Deport, Pa.
regional ground and surface water systems. will not be forced into a specific method. Net-zero waste installations are: Fort
A net-zero waste installation reduces, Instead, the pilot installations will be Detrick; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Hunter-
reuses and recovers solid waste, removing encouraged to present at conferences and Liggett; Fort Polk, La.; Joint Base Lewis-
the need for landfill. symposia about their journey to achieve McChord; and U.S. Army Garrison
net zero, sharing their strategies, successes, Grafenwoehr, Germany.
During the plenary session at Fort challenges and lessons learned for use by
Detrick, attendees saw presentations from other Army installations. Net-zero energy, water and waste
Army staff, other federal agencies and installations are: Fort Bliss, Texas; and Fort
industry counterparts. Field trips were A programmatic National Carson, Colo.
conducted at locations on Fort Detrick to Environmental Policy Act Environmental
highlight examples of sustainable practices Assessment is underway. The assessment POC is Kristine Kingery, Office of the Deputy
in energy, water and waste. will evaluate the various behaviors, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Energy and
processes and technologies that can Sustainability, 703-614-5883, kristine.kingery@
On the second day, breakout sessions be used to achieve net zero and their us.army.mil.
Acronyms and Abbreviations associated environmental impacts and
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act mitigation. This effort will provide scoping Doug Waters is the renewable energy and net-
OACSIM Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for and development of environmental zero portfolio manager, Army Energy and Utility
Installation Management team, Facilities Policy Division, OACSIM.
PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 7

8. Energy awareness and conservation assessments identify quick fixes
by Ralph Totorica
E
ach year, Headquarters Installation commander and director of Public Works. Acronyms and Abbreviations
Management Command centrally Following discussion with the installation DPW Directorate of Public Works
funds about 12 energy awareness energy manager about objectives and IMCOM Installation Management Command
and conservation assessments at IMCOM expectations, the contractor reviews utility
at the POC information below.
installations. The assessments help cost and consumption data, and identifies
IMCOM garrisons identify no-cost and buildings to be surveyed with the energy POC is Ralph Totorica, 210-466-0598, ralph.
low-cost energy-savings opportunities and manager. The contractor then conducts totorica@us.army.mil.
provide energy conservation awareness four days of building surveys, including a
training for the garrison leadership and night assessment, looking for energy-saving Ralph Totorica is a general engineer, Energy and
community. opportunities with a focus on low-cost Utilities Branch, Public Works Division,
measures and operations and maintenance Headquarters IMCOM.
The intent is to capture quick wins
through energy-saving efforts that the improvements that can be easily
implemented with in-house resources.
garrison can execute immediately with little
to no investment costs. Following the surveys, the contractor
Top 10 no-cost or low-
The assessments furnish garrisons prepares site-specific presentations and cost energy savings
with a valuable tool to evaluate their
current energy consumption patterns and
presents observations at training sessions
for building energy monitors, commanders opportunities:
increase energy awareness throughout the and staff, and DPW personnel. A good
1. Validate building daily occupancy
installation community. In addition, the turnout from the installation community
and weekend occupancy schedules,
assessments assist garrisons with meeting at the presentations is key to the effort’s
plus, where possible, program holiday,
the requirement to perform energy audits success.
deployment and training schedules.
on 25 percent of building inventory each In addition to identifying specific energy 2. Adjust the occupied and unoccupied
year. Headquarters IMCOM’s goal is to get conservation measures, the assessment also heating and cooling temperature set-
each garrison on a four-year rotating cycle. offers a great opportunity for the energy points.
The assessment consists of a one- manager to increase energy awareness
3. Reduce unnecessary exterior lighting,
week site visit by a representative from through the garrison’s Public Affairs Office.
e.g., parking lot and entry lighting for
Headquarters IMCOM and an energy The energy awareness and conservation
unoccupied buildings.
consultant under contract for technical assessment concludes with an out-brief to
the garrison commander and directors. 4. Reduce unnecessary interior lighting
support. Representatives from IMCOM
in areas with sufficient daylighting,
regions are also encouraged to attend and The assessments are conducted at
e.g., foyers and lobby lighting.
participate in the assessments. no cost to the installation; however the
host installation must provide support to 5. Delamp over-lit areas and rooms, e.g.,
Typically, the week starts with four-lamp hallway fixtures.
introductory meetings with the garrison escort the contractor and provide access to
facilities to be surveyed. 6. Make simple lamp and ballast
upgrades, e.g., CFLs for incandescent.
To request an energy awareness and
conservation assessment, contact the author 7. Install lighting controls, motion sen-
sors, light switches; and simply turn
off lights at night.
8. Clean dirt and debris from or replace
air filters, exhaust fan grilles and air
intake louvers.
9. Replace weather-stripping, repair door
closers or close windows at night to
reduce heat losses and infiltration
10. Install low-flow faucets and show-
Energy awareness and conservation assessments erheads to reduce hot water use, e.g.,
identify quick fixes to be made like the lack of
weather stripping edge seals and bottom sweeps Unnecessary lighting such as this exterior lights on WaterSense fixtures and Energy Star-
on entry doors. Photos by Lyman Parkhurst, during daytime hours can be corrected for little of rated appliances and equipment.
Sain Engineering Associates no cost.
8 PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

9. Who wants free money?
by Clive Rountree
T
he Energy Savings Performance Acronyms and Abbreviations
Contract program is a source of ECM energy conservation measure
money to accomplish energy projects ESCO energy services company
at the garrison. The program, authorized ESPC Energy Savings Performance Contract
by the Energy Policy Act of 1992, allows IMCOM Installation Management Command
Army agencies to use financing provided M&V measurement and verification
by energy services companies. Additional O&M operations and maintenance
legislation extended and enhanced the OACSIM Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for
ESPC program to offer numerous benefits Installation Management
to the Army. SSR site survey report
UESC Utility Energy Savings Contract
Federal mandates require Army garrisons
to reduce energy intensity by 3 percent per
year from 2006, using 2003 as a baseline. Clive Rountree
Courtesy photo
They also require a 2 percent reduction per
year in water intensity beginning in 2008, forward. After the garrison has decided
using 2007 as a baseline. to do an ESPC project, it hires a project
Intensity is defined as consumption per facilitator, a third party who acts as a
area. In the case of energy, the intensity champion for the project and a central
is measured in million British thermal point of contact for all concerned. The
units used for every 1,000 square feet, or garrison hires its facilitator from a list of After the SSR has been reviewed and
as commonly seen, MBtu/ksf. Water is approved individuals maintained by the the garrison has selected the ECMs and
measured in gallons per square foot, or Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff buildings to be included, the ESCO
gal/sf. for Installation Management. Then, the proceeds with an investment-grade audit.
ESCO selection process is started. This audit results in a proposal with very
With ESPCs, as in real life, there isn’t exact ECM descriptions, cost, savings,
any such thing as a free lunch. The process The potential ESCOs that respond to
the advertised project do a walk-through M&V plan and O&M plan.
can be daunting. There are numerous steps
to take and hoops to jump through, but with garrison personnel. Each develops This proposal is reviewed by the
the end result is a significant energy project a brief proposal of about 20 pages. From garrison, region, contracting agency, project
developed, financed, designed, constructed these proposals, one ESCO will be chosen. facilitator and Headquarters, Installation
and maintained by an ESCO. The selection committee comprises Management Command. Each reviewer
individuals from the contract agency and develops questions and comments that are
The garrison has some financial burden. forwarded to the ESCO for resolution.
It is responsible for hiring the project the garrison, the project facilitator and
facilitator and engaging the contracting others who may be involved. The proposals The ESCO incorporates the comments
vehicle. This cost can be as much as are reviewed and rated by individual and questions in a final proposal. This final
$75,000, which is a very small percentage members. Then the committee discusses proposal is reviewed by same team that did
of the total potential project. the points, good and bad, of each proposal, the initial review to ensure all questions
and a selection is made by unanimous and comments have been incorporated or
The garrison also has other answered.
consent.
responsibilities. Operational Order 11-313
requires garrisons with ESPC projects to The selected ESCO returns to the Now, the project is ready for higher
have an ESPC program manager, assigned installation and does a more in-depth headquarters approval and the contract
in writing, to serve as the point of contact survey. The ESCO representatives ask a to be issued to the ESCO. Headquarters
between the garrison and the ESCO. lot of questions of their escorts and make IMCOM puts together a project summary
The garrison needs to provide utility data, suggestions. After the visit, the ESCO and supporting documents, and forwards
escort services, points of contact in the develops its site survey report. The SSR is a it up the chain of command through the
Directorate of Public Works and shops, broad look at potential energy conservation OACSIM for final approval by the deputy
drawings and other survey data the ESCO measures and buildings, and includes assistant secretary of the Army for energy
may request. rough savings and cost estimates, and and sustainability. When final approval is
early measurement and verification and obtained, the contracting agency issues the
The ESPC process is fairly straight contract. ➤
operations and maintenance plans.
PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 9

10. Strategy for funding energy and utility projects
by Qaiser Toor
T
he Installation Management Acronyms and Abbreviations
Campaign Plan includes a specific E&U energy and utility
line of effort focused on energy and ECM energy conservation measure
water efficiency and security. By achieving FSM Facilities Sustainment Model
energy conservation, efficiency and security FY fiscal year
goals, IMCOM will better position the IMCOM Installation Management Command
Army to accomplish its missions in a more ISR Installation Status Report
cost-efficient manner regardless of the NIST National Institute of Standards and
energy challenges in the future. Technology
OPORD operations order
To expand on the line of effort,
PPS Project Prioritization System
IMCOM issued Operations Order 10-257,
R&M Restoration and Modernization
which requires a broad range of actions,
SRM Sustainment, Restoration and
including, Qaiser Toor Modernization
Photo by Mary Beth Thompson
• establishment of a garrison compre- • replacing motors and pumps with high-
hensive energy and water conservation Specific low-cost and no-cost ECMs efficiency Energy Star equipment when
program, targeted for funding in fiscal 2011 replacements are required instead of
• accomplishment of campaign plan goals, included: rewiring inefficient motors;
and • replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs • installing timing controls for pump
• enhancement of an energy posture across or LED lamps; motors during high-use or high-demand
IMCOM. • replacing exit lights with LED lighting times, allowing them to be off during
IMCOM’s strategy fixtures; low-use times; and
The Energy OPORD directed specific • installing programmable thermostats; • recommissioning buildings.
actions and energy conservation measures • replacing T12 fluorescent lamps that have In FY 2011, IMCOM funded $112.3
to help achieve mandated energy goals standard ballasts with T8 or T5 lamps million in garrison energy and utility
with an emphasis on low-cost and no-cost that have electronic ballasts, and install- infrastructure projects. This funding
ECMs, and identification and development ing occupancy sensors; included $16 million for low-cost and
of all cost-effective energy- and water- • installing or replacing weather stripping no-cost energy projects, $41.4 million for
efficiency projects with a payback of on entry ways where gaps are visible and Installation Status Report red- or black-
less than 10 years. IMCOM’s strategy caulking joints, window frames, door condition utilities projects and $54.9
is to focus on return on investment and jambs and wall penetrations; million for energy and water efficiency
to initially target low-cost and no-cost projects with less than a 10-year payback.
• rewiring indoor lighting, except LED
projects for funding to “buy out” these exit fixtures, that are wired on 24/7 to be Garrisons’ role
projects at all garrisons and then to focus turned on either by switches or motion
on projects with less than a 10-year Garrisons need to take advantage of this
sensors; Headquarters IMCOM Restoration
payback. ➤
(continued from previous page) finance and construct the project and O&M savings and should not be used for
will receive payment from the savings those purposes.
In a short time, the garrison has new,
realized by the garrison. Unlike the ESPC, For further information on the program,
energy-efficient equipment, reducing its
the UESC does not require competitive refer to the Army Energy Program
consumption and putting it on the road
bidding. The approval process for a UESC Policies and Regulations, and ESPC
to meeting its mandated goals, all paid for
is similar to the ESPC process. Guidance at http://army-energy.hqda.
with other people’s money and paid back
from guaranteed savings. Remember, the ESPC and UESC pentagon.mil/policies/guidance.asp.
programs are for energy savings. It takes
Utility Energy Savings Contracts are POC is Clive Rountree, 210-466-0596, clive.
planning and looking forward at the
another source of funding. The UESC is rountree@us.army.mil.
garrison equipment to put together a
a direct partnership between the garrison
good project. They are not well suited for Clive Rountree is the ESPC program manager,
and its utility provider. Like the ESPC,
broken equipment replacement or massive Headquarters IMCOM.
the utility acting as an ESCO will develop,
10 PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

11. (continued from previous page) dedicated to repair and modernization of than 50 percent, this authority rests
utilities infrastructure are also included and with the deputy assistant secretary of
and Modernization Program funding
prioritized according to ISR ratings Q3 the Army for installations and housing.
to augment their local Sustainment,
and Q4 and solid project justification. These projects require that a DD Form
Restoration and Modernization and
1391, Military Construction Project Data,
Military Construction funds for energy Achieving success also be submitted through Headquarters
and utilities projects. The first step for Taking certain steps will set your IMCOM for approval. The procedures
energy managers should be to work with garrison up for success with the R&M for submission of the SRM DD1391
their Master Planning, Engineering Program. are available on Army Knowledge
and Business Operations divisions to
First, ensure that all E&U projects are Online at https://www.us.army.mil/suite/
identify and plan for requirements using
documented on a DA Form 4283, Facilities doc/30120912.
the garrison master plan to develop their
annual work plans. Engineering Work Request, and entered into Garrison commanders have the authority
the Project Prioritization System available for repair projects up to $5 million if the
Garrison’s should fund the resulting at http://pps.hqda.pentagon.mil. Currently, repair-to-replacement ratio is less than 50
projects using sustainment funds from PPS does not have the capability to capture percent. All SRM projects greater than
their local SRM budgets to the maximum savings-to-investment ratio or payback, so $5 million require submission through
extent possible. In concert with local SRM a companion Excel spreadsheet template Headquarters IMCOM for deputy
funds, the execution strategy can also is being used to solicit this critical data assistant secretary of the Army approval.
include use of centralized Restoration and and enable prioritization and consolidation
Modernization Program funds. Projects over $7.5 million require
into a Headquarters IMCOM master
congressional notification. These projects
To take advantage of the R&M project list. It is important to ensure that
must be submitted to Headquarters
Program, it helps to have an understanding the project numbers and the project titles
IMCOM no later than the first week of
of how it is funded. Sustainment funds in PPS exactly match their counterparts on
August to obtain congressional approval
for IMCOM garrisons are derived from the Excel template. The PPS fix is in the
before the end of that fiscal year. Submit
the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s works and should be completed prior to
only projects that will be ready for
Facility Sustainment Model, which is built the next data call.
execution by the end of the fiscal year.
from the real property inventory at each Second, follow the PPS Energy and
garrison. In recent budgeting cycles, the Utilities Business Rules, available on the Project execution
Army funded sustainment at 90 percent help tab, and include a properly completed When a project is centrally funded, it
of the FSM model, and IMCOM, in life-cycle cost analysis worksheet. To aid must be executed and data updated in PPS.
turn, funded its garrisons at 75 percent of in preparing the worksheet, the National Any changes or substitutions need to be
the FSM model, while withholding the Institute of Standards and Technology approved by Headquarters IMCOM.
difference for use in key aspects of the developed Handbook 135, available at
R&M Program, to implement the Army’s Projects can be executed a number
http://www.nist.gov/customcf/get_pdf. of different ways – by using the local
Facility Investment Strategy and to fund cfm?pub_id=907459. NIST annually
E&U projects. contracting office, through your local
updates the energy price indices and Corps of Engineer district or through
Regions and garrisons will be asked for discount factors for economic analysis in an Engineering and Support Center,
submissions of R&M projects by way of a an interagency report, NISTIR 85-3273- Huntsville indefinite delivery-indefinite
Headquarters IMCOM operations order 21, found at http://www1.eere.energy.gov/ quantity contract.
in early FY 2012. These funds become femp/pdfs/ashb10.pdf. The report provides
available for distribution to IMCOM discount factors for life-cycle analysis. In the future, IMCOM will also look
garrisons at various times throughout the to tracking and verifying energy and cost
Third, be aware of restrictions on savings of projects.
fiscal year. funding arising from work classifications
Headquarters IMCOM awards R&M regulations. For maintenance and repair POC is Qaiser Toor, 210-466-0604, qaiser.toor@
funds earmarked for E&U projects on projects of more than $750,000, a repair- us.army.mil.
a competitive basis. Projects are ranked to-replacement cost analysis determines
according to savings-to-investment ratio, who has the authority to approve the Qaiser Toor is the chief, Energy and Utilities
payback and energy saved as well as project. Branch, Public Works Division, Headquarters,
IMCOM.
garrison and region priorities. Projects For projects that have a ratio of more
PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 11

12. Achieving energy effectiveness, net zero – It takes a master plan
by Jerry Zekert
I
nstallations are faced with huge and goals and objectives state
challenges to meet federal goals for requirements for achieving net-
energy efficiency and achieve the zero, every proposal must follow
net-zero vision. The Army assessed its suit.
physical plant and identified many projects Area development planning is
that range from enhancing the ability to where their planning becomes
measure consumption, increasing heating reality. During these efforts,
and air conditioning systems’ efficiency installations focus on distinct
and improving buildings’ insulation to areas and forge a comprehensive
leveraging the best technologies for development plan for each.
renewable energy. However, the Army still The ADP cites requirements,
has a ways to go to achieve its goals. At how they will be designed
the same time, it is seeing on the horizon and, within the district, how Jerry Zekert (right), the author, and Cindi Skinner, master planner
real world budget constraints, as well as at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., discuss energy-efficient solutions
the physical plant is going to during an ADP work effort. Photo courtesy of Jerry Zekert
no let-up on rapid changes in mission provide energy and water and
requirements. handle waste. ensure all investments meet the goals of
All these issues can be constraints on the ADPs, the IDG and, ultimately, the
The ADP integrates the holistic energy
capabilities for success. The importance installation vision. The CIS ensures that all
supporting requirements into the master
of energy efficiency and attaining net zero Military Construction and Sustainment,
plan, including leveraging renewable
for installations and the nation is obvious. Restoration and Modernization
sources for energy, aligning the ADP
How to accomplish it all is less evident. initiatives, including infrastructure and
areas appropriately to most effectively use
energy requirements, are incorporated as
Achieving success requires stepping solar energy, considering more narrow
well. Through the CIS, all projects are
back and taking a broad enterprise configurations and proposing district
synchronized and vetted based on the
approach, using the installation master energy plants. Further, the ADP develops
installation’s planning principles.
planning process to create a synchronized an investment strategy for inserting
development plan that enables installations these technologies into Sustainment, Using an enterprisewide approach to
to meet current and projected mission Restoration and Modernization; Military installation master planning can ensure
requirements while achieving goals for Construction; nonappropriated funds or energy considerations are prime principles
energy and leveraging constrained funding other funding opportunities. This strategy in the installation’s development of goals
streams. leverages existing revenue streams to ensure and objectives. These steps provide the
energy considerations are embedded into means for any installation to achieve these
Installations around the world are seizing
investment actions. goals.
this opportunity to synchronize their
master plans with achieving their energy Installation design guides enforce their The goals for energy efficiency
efficiency goals while meeting mission planning standards. The IDGs document are very high, and without a broad
needs now and tomorrow. Here’s how they planning standards for activities that are enterprise approach, they cannot be
are doing it. providing construction, modernization achieved. Using the principles of master
or repair and replacement services on the planning, installations can ensure energy
Visioning is their key rubric. If your
installation. considerations are included.
installation is relooking its master plan,
consider using the visioning phase to The new IDG structure is much less As Benjamin Franklin stated, “If you fail
integrate energy and net-zero goals into prescriptive and reflects only the planning to plan, you are planning to fail.”
the installation’s planning principles. standards required to comply with the
master plan. Since the IDG is part of the POC is Jerry Zekert, 202-761-7525,
This integration is so important. jerry.c.zekert@usace.army.mil.
These principles guide all installation master plan, and all projects must be sited
development; therefore, if your vision according to the master plan, the IDG can Jerry Zekert is the chief, Master Planning Team,
provide the associated energy planning Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Acronyms and Abbreviations standards needed to meet the goals of an
ADP area development plan energy-effective installation master plan.
CIS capital investment strategy
Capital investment strategy synchronizes
IDG installation design guide
their installation development activities to
12 PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

13. Moving toward net zero: Role of master planning
by Mark L. Gillem
A
t the August GovEnergy conference a collaborative
in Cincinnati, exhibitors and process that
presenters focused on building engaged hundreds
energy reduction to achieve energy of stakeholders
mandates. Innovative mechanical systems, on and off the
building energy recover techniques and installation to
facility-based energy production tools were create a plan that
featured strategies. While these and many could accommodate
other solutions are essential in the drive short- and long-
to reduce Department of Defense energy term growth.
use, another strategy that must be included Natick’s planning
in the conversation is the way we plan our vision is, “To be a
installations. sustainable research
When we place a few energy-efficient and development
buildings within a landscape of sprawl community that
that requires automobile trips and adds fosters mission
pavement, the benefits at the building excellence through
level are undone by the energy used in state-of-the-art
transportation to get to and from those buildings organized A rendering demonstrates the Natick Soldier System Center’s vision of becoming a
walkable campus that integrates strategies for water, energy and waste reduction.
buildings. into a walkable Graphic by The Urban Collaborative LLC
campus.”
To address the role of planning, U.S. 17 million kWh per year. In addition,
Army Corps of Engineers planners are As part of the process, the team a trigeneration district energy solution
working to integrate energy, water and incorporated many strategies at the is planned. When coupled with user
waste reduction at the installation scale planning scale to move toward net zero. reduction, which is not factored in at the
within the context of the Army’s Net-Zero The team developed metrics to track planning level, Natick could get to net-zero
Initiative. While the Army has selected compliance and focus efforts on the most energy use.
several installations to be prototypes for beneficial strategies.
Waste – When current recycling
achieving net-zero use in water, waste and Water – Natick’s projected water programs are applied to the master plan
energy, all installations should be working requirement is 26 million gallons annually. build-out, the waste stream can be reduced
toward that goal. Using rainwater catchment and storage by 60 percent. Another 12 percent can be
The Natick Soldier Systems Center near systems, the installation can capture up to achieved by using compost and diversion
Boston is one location where planners are 14 million gallons, or roughly 53 percent of techniques resulting in a total reduction
addressing the issue at the installation and its requirement. Net-zero water use can be of 72 percent. When coupled with user
building scales. Achieving net zero requires achieved in part by adding aquifer recharge reduction, which is also not factored in at
a holistic approach to addressing Natick’s through on-site stormwater mitigation. the planning level, Natick may be able to
energy, water and waste. By reducing impervious surfaces through get to net-zero waste, too.
a variety of master planning strategies, the
Planning can play a significant role Master planning plays a key role in
installation would be able to mitigate the
in achieving these goals, but for the the Army’s movement toward achieving
remaining 12 million gallons.
installation to attain a net-zero status, net-zero energy, waste and water. Master
sustainable strategies must be incorporated Energy – The projected annual energy planning strategies should be incorporated
into existing and new buildings, and requirement using standard planning at the earliest stages and used to guide
reduction and conservation must be methods is 22 million kilowatt hours. future development.
implemented at the individual user level With appropriate master planning, up to
as well. This holistic approach allows the a 40 percent reduction can be achieved POC is Mark L. Gillem, 510-551-8065, mark@
Army to be stewards of the environment, using narrow wings, cool roofs and other urbancollaborative.com.
reduce resource use and provide a strategies. Another 36 percent can be
supplied by photovoltaic panels if used. Mark L. Gillem, Ph.D., AIA, AICP, a principal with
sustainable future for Soldiers, Civilians The Urban Collaborative, is a consultant, Master
and Families. These changes could result in a net
Planning Team, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
energy reduction of 76 percent or almost
Natick’s master plan emerged out of
PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 13

14. Not white, not black, but gray – water, that is
by Richard Scholze
C
ontingency bases categorize systems effectively increases the capacity
water as “white,” “black” and of the wastewater system and treatment
“gray,” with variations on the gray. plant.
Respectively, those terms mean “potable,” Potential disadvantages exist:
“sanitary wastewater” and “all other.” In
• Gray-water use may be more costly, an
the continental United States, however,
issue in areas where price is more impor-
gray water has a more focused definition:
tant than water quantity.
the effluent from laundry and bathing
or shower use in residential or similar • Gray-water use may decrease flow to the
facilities. Gray water has a variety of sewage plant, a concern in areas that are A CERL research assistant sets up an experimental
chemical, microbiological and physical required to deliver a certain amount of gray-water treatment system, one of several ongoing
return flow to existing streams. studies seeking ways to make more use of gray water.
contaminants that require care in its use, Photo courtesy of CERL
but it is a resource that can augment the • Gray-water use has a small potential
for disease transmission if proper han- Gray water has been receiving increased
water supply of water-short areas when
dling and treatment procedures are not interest as a supplemental water resource,
used for a purpose requiring a lower quality.
followed. and research and development programs
Water resources are receiving increased and a number of demonstrations are
attention throughout the nation and the Some states do not actively promote or
under way with government or academic
Army. Executive orders, legislation and ban gray-water use, and other states and
oversight. For example, the Construction
initiatives demand increased efficiency communities have differing requirements.
Engineering Research Laboratory is
in water use and consumption, including Consultation with local authorities is
conducting a demonstration project that
EO 13514, the Energy Independence and essential prior to initiating a program.
will collect gray water, harvested rainwater
Security Act and, most recently, the Army’s Proponents nationwide are actively
and air handling unit condensate and,
Net-Zero Water Initiative. working to enact supportive ordinances,
following appropriate treatment, use it for
develop appropriate building codes, address
Augmentation of existing water supplies fixture flushing, cooling towers, irrigation
user issues and develop a standardized
by up to 40 gallons per day per person has or aquifer recharge.
testing protocol for manufactured units.
been estimated for gray water, which can CERL, under Headquarters, U.S.
be reused for fixture flushing or irrigation For military applications, the best time
Army Corps of Engineers’ sponsorship,
with minimal treatment. Gray water to use and design for gray-water use is
prepared a Public Works Technical
is not the same as reclaimed water, the during new construction. After estimating
Bulletin available at http://www.wbdg.
highly treated product from very complex potential production, a decision can be
org/ccb/browse_cat.php?o=31&c=215. The
wastewater treatment facilities found reached whether to incorporate. Buildings
bulletin describes the pros and cons of
primarily in purple pipe systems in Florida, such as a barracks would be the most
gray-water use, a brief review of legal and
California, Georgia, Arizona and Texas. logical choice. Life-cycle cost-effectiveness
health considerations, lessons learned from
Reclaimed water is used for a variety of should be addressed along with local water
gray-water applications in other arenas
purposes, primarily irrigation. restrictions.
and appropriate Army scenarios for toilet
The advantages of using gray water are Determining the end use will impact flushing, landscape irrigation or other
several: system design. Fixture flushing requires a acceptable uses. This bulletin will enable
higher level of treatment than subsurface installations to determine the potential
• Less potable water is consumed.
irrigation, for example. Systems designed for gray-water recycling or application
• Less discharge occurs, reducing wastewa- for larger buildings are available at their facilities as part of a sustainable
ter, which usually costs more to treat than commercially and include more complex water program, as a supplemental water
potable water. treatment processes. They may also be supply source or to meet net-zero water
• Less energy and fewer chemicals are used capable of handling other sources of requirements.
by the water provider. nonpotable water such as rainwater, air
• Less hydraulic load to existing sewer handling unit condensate and even black POC is Richard Scholze, 217-398-5590,
water (sewage). Treatment is then through richard.j.scholze@usace.army.mil.
Acronyms and Abbreviations a membrane bioreactor or similarly
sophisticated system rather than simple Richard Scholze is a senior project manager
CERL Construction Engineering Research
Laboratory specializing in water management, reuse and
filtration and disinfection.
EO Executive Order conservation, CERL, Champaign, Ill.
14 PUBLIC WORKS DIGEST • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011