The Biden administration has devoted a bundle of federal money promoting clean energy and sustainability initiatives.
The latest example of the administration practicing what it is preaching is a recent announcement that the Defense Department is installing solar panels at the Pentagon, according to The Associated Press. The Pentagon is one of 31 government sites receiving $104 million in grants. The energy projects are expected to double the use of carbon-free electricity at federal facilities.
Other energy improvements at the Pentagon include a heat pump system and solar thermal panels reducing reliance on natural gas and fuel oil combustion systems. Pentagon officials touted the solar panels as an “uninterrupted power source” in the case of a cyberattack. As a registered historic landmark, Pentagon officials will work with local officials to meet installation requirements.
In addition to the Pentagon, other federal projects scheduled for energy upgrades through the grant program include: Naval bases; Energy Department headquarters; Interior and Veterans Affairs departments; and Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii.
Dave Lubach is executive editor of the facility market.
