Unit Energy Manager (UEM) Program

WASHINGTON, DC, UNITED STATES

11.17.2015

Story by Kristen Tenery 

Marine Corps Installations Command

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Marine Corps has long been making breakthroughs in energy technology, but technical investment is only one part of the energy efficiency equation. A new focus on behavior and culture surrounding energy led to the creation of the Unit Energy Manager (UEM) Program, which launched in March 2015. The program aims to ensure energy end-users – Marines – change their daily behaviors to lower the Corps’ overall energy demand.

The UEM Program supports the Energy Ethos – the shared vision that the efficient use of energy resources is a critical component of mission readiness. Utilities currently account for 19 percent of Base Operations Support (BOS) costs, and budget pressures and unpredictable energy prices require the Marine Corps to reduce this utility spending.

Overspending on utilities can have direct negative impacts on the mission – a station in California recently had to reduce training range open hours to cover unplanned costs. The efficient use of energy will also allow installations to remain resilient in the face of events impacting the energy supply, and will prepare Marines for when they are asked to conserve resources in the battlefield. While technological investments are being made to increase efficiency, Marine Corps leadership is focused on one simple fact: Marines need to use less energy.

SgtMaj Anthony Cruz, of Marine Corps Installations Command (MCICOM), said of the program: “UEMs are already making an impact across the Marine Corps. We are constantly looking for innovative ways to further train and equip them to do even more. I am confident that this program will help foster a lasting consciousness surrounding energy use. In the end, our desired end state is simple – reduce our energy supply vulnerability and drive down installation cost so that more funds can be spent on training and other combat readiness priorities.”

Battalion and Squadron Commanders have appointed a Marine in each expeditionary unit to serve as a UEM, acting as the main point of contact for energy issues, monitoring energy use in unit facilities, and educating Marines on energy efficient habits. Over 250 Marines have been assigned and trained to date; this number will increase as the program continues to expand and mature. UEMs recently played an integral role in raising awareness during Energy Action Month, and will continue to help make energy efficiency a priority throughout the entire year. They are aided in their efforts by their Installation Energy Manager (IEM).

For other Marine Corps Energy Videos, visit:
• Energy Action Month 2014 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUJ-yGdfuKc
• I MEF Leadership - http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=20884
• III MEF Leadership - https://www.dvidshub.net/video/429696/energy-leadership-video#.VjeRA7Eo7IX
• MCIWEST Leadership - http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=20882

• Date Taken: 11.17.2015
• Date Posted: 11.17.2015 14:58
• Story ID: 182161
• Location: WASHINGTON, DC, US