Largest private-public collaboration in DoD history reflects commitment to clean energy

412th Test Wing Public Affairs

EDWARDS AIR FORCE

BASE (AFNS) — The 412th Test Wing unveiled a new solar facility on the northwest corner of Edwards Air Force Base, Feb. 2. The facility, built in collaboration with Terra-Gen LLC, is a result of the Edwards Solar Enhance Use Lease Project. The novel land management agreement marks the largest private-public partnership within the Department of Defense.

“The Edwards Air Force Base Solar Project is a triple win –it’s good for resilience, it’s good for energy security, and it’s good for the economy,” said Andrew Mayock, White House federal chief sustainability officer. “We commend the U.S. Air Force for its leadership and for showing what’s possible when we invest in our nation’s clean energy future.”

Other speakers at the ceremony included Nancy J. Balkus, deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for Environment, Safety and Infrastructure; Jim Pagano, Terra-Gen LLC chief executive officer; and Daniel L. Johnson, Mortenson CEO.

The facility, which has almost 2 million solar panels installed, can produce up to 1,300 megawatts of power to the California Independent System Operator grid. This grid is estimated to power more than 238,000 homes, displacing more than 320,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. The solar array itself is the largest project of its kind in U.S. Air Force history.

“The Air Force needs resiliency, reliability and readiness with our energy systems,” said Brig. Gen. William H. Kale III, Air Force Civil Engineer Center commander. “We must enhance mission assurance, and we can’t do it without energy assurance. I don’t care if it’s a small modular reactor that we put up in Alaska, geothermal in Wyoming, solar power in New Jersey, or wind power in Massachusetts.”

In addition, the solar array aims to lower electricity costs for the civilian workforce, Edwards residents and surrounding communities while providing power grid stability to the local community. The Air Force estimates the project could yield cash rent consideration up to $75.8 million throughout the expected 35-year lease.

Terra-Gen LLC, the partnering renewable energy developer, completed pre-construction due diligence activities that supported Kern County design reviews and project permitting. The Air Force and Terra-Gen’s special purpose entities also executed the first of multiple site development leases authorizing project construction in early 2021.

Under the Air Force’s Enhanced Use Lease program, special purpose entities managed by private developers such as

Terra-Gen LLC incrementally leased and developed the property in exchange for cash or inkind consideration at or above fair market value. The new Enhanced Use Lease area comprises up to 4,000 acres of non-excess underutilized property at Edwards and surrounding private property. The Air Force Civil Engineer Center, a primary subordinate unit of the Air Force

Installation and Mission Support Center, managed the program. The United States Air Force with this project seeks to modernize infrastructure and facilities by investing in climate-ready and resilient air and space installations. This project also aligned with broader goals to transition toward clean energy and reduce reliance on carbon energy sources.

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Travis military communities enjoy self-serve convenience with exchange micro markets

Army & Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE — Airmen without easy access to the Exchange or Express can still fuel up with better-for-you meals and snacks at the Travis Exchange’s Service’s eight micro markets. Micro markets are fully automated self-serve stores located near airmen and Department of Defense civilians working unusual hours or in high-traffic or out-of-the-way areas.

“The Travis Exchange is all in to offer more convenience for the military community,” Travis Exchange General Manager Cathie Byrns said in a press release. “Micro markets are another example of the Exchange’s longstanding commitment to provide for military members wherever they are called to serve.”

First introduced in 2014, micro markets are a fast-growing segment with about 80 new locations opened in 2022. About 80 locations are planned throughout the continental United States in 2023. Micro markets offer a wider product assortment compared with traditional vending machines. Offerings vary by location, with most offering fresh salads, fruit and other better-for-you items. The healthy food offerings are part of the Exchange’s Be Fit 360 program that focuses on holistic wellness and a healthy lifestyle. Select micro market locations also offer over-the-counter medicines, personal hygiene items and other sundries.

Two more micro markets are planned to open at Travis Air Force Base in 2023, including locations at Building 803 and at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center.