The 102nd Intelligence Wing will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the initial operating capabilities of the installation’s newly completed, energy independent microgrid system on Wednesday, Aug 29 at 10:00 a.m.
The Otis Microgrid project, the first of such a broad scope for a DoD installation, will provide electrical capabilities almost exclusively based on renewable energy while ensuring a high-level of grid security. The energy security and resiliency provided by the microgrid is critical to the 24/7 mission of the 102nd Intelligence Wing.
First announced in 2015, the microgrid came to realization in the form of a $6 million grant from the Defense Department's Environmental Security Technology Certification Program. ESTCP is the DoD's technology demonstration and validation program established to promote environmentally-friendly projects that demonstrate the most innovative and cost-effective technologies and methods that address high-priority environmental requirements. Projects conduct formal demonstrations at DoD facilities, in operational settings, to document and validate improved performance and cost savings.
Since breaking ground, a number of military, government and commercial organizations have been involved in the design, planning and implementation of the system. Civil engineer and communications Airmen from the 102 IW and Army Reserves Soldiers from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, teamed up with technicians and engineers from companies such as Raytheon, to ensure the project came together efficiently and effectively.
In 2016, the wing hosted a leadership summit on the project. Then Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment and Energy Miranda Ballentine said, "The resilient energy system project at Otis ANG Base is an excellent example of innovative airmen driving mission assurance through energy assurance. The 102nd Intelligence Wing has critical missions requiring uninterrupted access to electricity." She went on to say, "By integrating renewable energy, advanced energy storage, and innovative controls, this system will provide vital capabilities to our warfighters and intelligence professionals.”
The Otis Microgrid will completely transform how the base manages and utilizes energy, and will serve as a model for future grid modernization projects in the future.
This event is open to the media. All media representatives interested in attending must register with the 102nd Intelligence Wing Public Affairs office not later than noon on Thursday, 23 Aug, by emailing usaf.ma.102-iw.mbx.pa@mail.mil. Media will use the Gibbons Gate and arrive by 9:00 a.m.
Google Maps Location
https://goo.gl/maps/sdhyduHevuo
Directions to Gibbons Gate, Otis Air National Guard Base
1. From Interstate 495 South: Proceed to the Bourne Bridge and cross over the Cape Cod Canal.
2. Take Route 28 South from the Rotary at the Bourne Bridge in the direction of Falmouth.
3. Approximately seven miles south of the Bourne Rotary take the MA-151 East exit toward Mashpee/North Falmouth.
4. After approximately 5 miles, at the traffic light, turn left onto Sandwich Road.
5. Follow for approximately one half mile to turn left onto Simpkins Road.
6. Proceed to the Gibbons Gate where you will be met by a base official.