$990K Microgrid Project to Boost Energy Security at NAS Sigonella

Photo By Lisa Woodbury Rama | Sigonella, Italy - - Antonino Piluso, Installation Energy Manager (IEM), Public Works Department (PWD), Naval Air Station, Sigonella inspects a solar panel on the installations 1MW photovoltaic system farm. PWD Sigonella managed a major demand for essential base services in support of the installations recent efforts to Operation ALLIES REFUGE. (photo by UT2 Maruyama Austin, PWD Sigonella)  

SIGONELLA, ITALY

09.30.2025

Story by Anthony Cage 

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Europe Africa Central

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Europe, Africa, Central awarded a $990,882 design-build, firm-fixed-price contract Sept. 19, 2025, to Environmental Chemical Corporation Italy, SRL, for the installation of a new comprehensive distributed energy microgrid aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella.

The project improves energy security – resiliency and reliability – for the installation while adding resilience to the installation's potable water and firefighting capabilities.

This investment enhances our energy security and enables us to maintain critical operations even during grid outages,” said Capt. Daniel Martins, commanding officer, NAS Sigonella. “By investing in this technology, Naval Air Station Sigonella, “The Hub of the Med”, enables the warfighter operating forward by delivering the highest quality support to U.S. and Allied forces, tenant commands and families.

A microgrid is a small, controllable electrical system that can operate independently or alongside the main power grid. It is resilient, efficient, sustainable, and integrates renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

“This project incorporates lessons learned from energy resilience readiness exercises,” said Antonino Piluso, NAS Sigonella installation energy manager. “It aligns with executive policy to utilize multiple secure and redundant fuel sources to ensure electric power grid resiliency and extend operations such as our water treatment plant.”

The scope of work includes installing photovoltaic panels; replacing switchgear and related infrastructure; installing an uninterrupted power supply battery storage system; and a control system.

NAS Sigonella provides consolidated operational, command and control, administrative, and advanced logistical support to U.S. and NATO forces. The installation’s strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability throughout Europe, Africa and Central Asia.

For current NAVFAC EURAFCENT fiscal year and future workload projections can be found at https://atlantic.navfac.navy.mil/NAVFAC-Worldwide/NAVFAC-Europe-Africa-Central/Workload-Projections/

To do business with NAVFAC, visit the Office of Small Business website: https://www.navfac.navy.mil/Divisions/Office-of-Small-Business-Programs/

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems is the naval shore facilities, base operating support, and expeditionary engineering systems command that delivers life-cycle technical and acquisition solutions aligned to fleet and Marine Corps priorities. NAVFAC EURAFCENT supports fleet commanders by providing engineering assessments and agile acquisition strategy, constructing and maintaining shore infrastructure, and maximizing force readiness to enhance warfighter capability. NAVFAC EURAFCENT serves as the engineering link between the shore and the Fleet in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

For updates or coverage opportunities, email [e-mail]

• Date Taken: 09.30.2025
• Date Posted: 09.30.2025 04:35
• Story ID: 549637
• Location: SIGONELLA, IT