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Energy Efforts Support a Sustained, Ready Force

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS140924-14
Release Date: 9/24/2014 3:04:00 PM

By Lt. David Carter, Naval Station Rota, Spain Public Affairs

ROTA, Spain (NNS) -- The assistant secretary of the Navy (Energy, Installations and Environment) visited Naval Station Rota, Spain, Sept. 23, to meet with regional and base leadership and discuss energy initiatives currently in place on the installation.

'Rota is one our most important geographical and strategic locations and the fact that you have a deep water port, a major airfield and the ability [to] handle just about any type of ship or aircraft, it's a key node in our logistics supply and directly supports multiple warfighters throughout the theater,' said Dennis McGinn.

Throughout his visit, McGinn toured base housing, port and maintenance areas as well as the air cargo facility, which is one of the base's newest energy-efficient structures.

'What we're trying to do is make sure that everyone understands the importance of energy and we're basically looking at the best value for the least cost to provide mission readiness and quality of life,' said McGinn.

Beyond the efforts taking place like solar panels and energy-efficient lighting, McGinn stressed that developing an educated and active force on the issue is the best way forward in creating a culture of energy-smart Sailors and Marines.

'It's two things really. First, leadership by example whereby knowledgeable people and leaders make that connection and not just talk the talk but walk the walk. Second, it's training, from the basic boot camp to the indoctrination programs when our Sailors come aboard a new command,' said McGinn.

Naval Station Rota recently competed in the region's 'Biggest Loser' competition, which compared the base's energy use for 2013 and 2014 during the month of July. The efforts resulted in nearly a seven percent decrease from the previous year's usage. Establishing a culture of energy-aware service members goes beyond an annual competition, however, and requires a persistent approach to setting the example and holding members of the command accountable.

'At the installation level, it's key that we communicate to our personnel how we as a base support the local operational, expeditionary, and special warfare units and ultimately their efforts downrange,' said Capt. Greg Pekari, Naval Station Rota's commanding officer. 'We'll continue to stay at the front of this critical initiative, promote that culture and implement proactive measures to support the long-term efforts throughout the year.'

Future energy projects in Rota include several roof-mounted solar panels, renewable energy studies, as well as continuing with quarterly energy awareness training. Additionally, Rota plans on rolling out the Navy's newest 'Energy Warrior' campaign locally, which will include tools and resources to lead change and increase combat capability through energy decisions.

'It's technology, culture and partnerships. And from my brief time here in Rota, it's apparent all of those things are in play and evident the leadership team here has got that message and it's going out and having an effect,' said McGinn.