Contractor Life: Military bases overseas introduced to green energy

KBRwyle Powers Military Bases with Green Energy

KBRwyle powers military bases throughout the Middle East with solar and wind lights that protect the environment and reduce the cost of fuel and services parts.

"Based on our years of experience working in harsh environments, we were looking for ways to provide exterior lighting without the fuel and maintenance burdens of gasoline or diesel powered light sets," said Mike Flanagan, KBRwyle Vice President for the LOGCAP IV team.

The company initially proposed the use of this eco-friendly energy source in 2014 as part of its efforts on the Logistics Civil Augmentation Program (LOGCAP) IV contract.

After researching and drawing upon successful energy initiatives on other projects, the company's LOGCAP IV leadership team recommended solar and wind-powered lights to illuminate entry control points as well as other areas during darkness.

Today, KBRwyle utilizes around 100 solar and wind lights at U.S. Army bases in Iraq and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). KBRwyle also harnesses solar power to support the Navy at Isa Air Base in Bahrain. It currently operates more than 150 solar street lights and solar light carts, providing cost savings to the customer.

These lights eliminate air emissions, and provide savings on fuel, maintenance, parts and hazardous waste disposal costs compared to traditional fuel-burning generators.

"The initial cost of a fuel-burning generator is cheaper, but ongoing fuel costs are weighty. Traditional generators require regular deliveries of fuel, which are more expensive and produce greenhouse gas," said Flanagan. "This innovative and cost-efficient solution demonstrates KBRwyle's commitment to the environment and customer."

KBRwyle has captured the power of the sun and wind in the Middle East and continues to expand its use of this green power source.