Schneider Electric announced a comprehensive energy infrastructure modernization project at Hurlburt Field outside Destin, Florida. The project will upgrade infrastructure and supports critical power supply and grid stability needs at the base, which is home to the U.S. Air Force’s Special Operations Command. Through the $22.6 million Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) with Schneider Electric, the project will reduce Hurlburt Field’s energy costs by 17.7% – resulting in $1.5 million in savings annually over the 22-year contract term for the U.S. Defense Dept.
Upgrades throughout Hurlburt Field’s more than 300 buildings include 240 kW of canopy solar PV and a 265-kWh energy storage system with microgrid controls designed to ensure reliable HVAC operations while improving operational resilience. Other improvements include base-wide LED lighting; transformer, HVAC and duct sealing upgrades; enhanced energy management control systems; and replacing legacy controllers and software to support compliance with USAF cybersecurity requirements. The results will improve airmen living conditions while helping minimize the impact on the maintenance squadron, increasing focus on other mission critical tasks.
“Between both our location along the Gulf of Mexico and the global responsibilities of our AFSOC mission, our need to ensure the security and stability of our grid is imperative,” said Steve Loken, the Hurlburt Field Civil Engineering Squadron Deputy. “The fact that we are able to implement energy conservation measures and renewables to self-fund these improvements will mean we can align with climate action goals for years to come.”
