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Original Date: 07/25/2005
Revision Date: 09/12/2006
Best Practice : EPA Green Lights Program
By working with Baltimore Gas & Electric, Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems has implemented many energy- efficient programs that have saved the company more than $800,000 annually, with a three-year payback on investment.
When constructing a new facility in Maryland, Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems’ Facilities Group used EPA’s Green Lights Program to install 3,500 lighting units consisting of T8 fluorescent lighting and electronic ballasts. NGES continues to work with Baltimore Gas & Electric (BG&E) to save thousands of dollars annually by installing energy-efficient equipment throughout its facilities.
The energy efficiency of T8 lighting precipitated several energy reduction initiatives. By isolating small sections within the production areas to pilot test the EPA Green Lights Program in the older production facilities, it was learned that the T8 lights and electronic ballasts produced harmonics that were not acceptable in a facility that manufactured high technology electronic systems. Through trials with various vendors, T8 lights and electronic ballasts were found that did not exhibit negative harmonics. The new electronic ballasts also saved 10 watts of power per ballast while the T8 fluorescent bulbs reduced power from 34 watts to 32 watts per bulb with the same candle power. The EPA Green Lights Program continues to expand by evaluating new electronic systems and reviewing their requirements.
By adding silver reflective shields to old lighting fixtures, it was determined that 3- and 4-bulb luminaries could be reduced to 2-bulb luminaries, further reducing the need for ballasts from 2 to 1 ballast per fixture. As expansion of EPA Green Lights continued throughout the facilities, NGES added computer-operated lighting zones to turn lights off and on based on work shifts. Motion sensors were added throughout office areas to turn lights out during non- occupied times of the work day.
Other energy efficiency accomplishments at NGES include:
Rider 14 – using private diesel engine generators for peak shaving
Energy-efficient electric motors to improve power factor
Using variable frequency motor drives to improve efficiency
Generating ice at night to assist with daytime chillers
Employee awareness of energy reduction goals
The savings from the energy conservation efforts at NGES exceed $819,739 annually. The rebates and financing from BG&E have enabled NGES to accomplish a three-year payback on investments. NGES employees continue to seek energy-efficient opportunities throughout the Baltimore facilities.
For more information see the
Point of Contact for this survey.
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