Energy audit coming to Scott AFB Published Jan. 19, 2011 By Bekah Clark 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- A team of energy experts from AMEC Earth and Environmental Company contracted by Air Force Civil Engineer Support Agency will visit Scott Jan. 24-27 to conduct Phase II of a renewable energy audit. The team first visited Scott in 2009 for an initial survey and assessment to determine what types of renewable energy projects would suit the base's infrastructure and environmental conditions. It was during this visit that the potential for a biomass project was determined. Biomass is the process of creating electricity and heat through the incineration of waste. According to the team's final report on the first visit, a biomass project could potentially "be sized to provide all of Scott AFB's electricity consumption." The final report also states, "the next steps include discussions with local waste firms and authorities to determine their level of interest in cooperating with the (Air Force), the amount of biomass that is potentially available in the area, and at what price. Discussions also need to be held with installation personnel to gain internal support and educate key players about the potential projects, and to discuss other challenges to development of ... a biomass plant." Scott was deemed to be a potential candidate for biomass based on its onsite and regional access to sources of waste including, waste from surrounding towns, farm waste and waste collection companies. During next week's audit, the team will collect further data and reevaluate the concept for economic feasibility. Once their findings have been evaluated and Scott's potential for a biomass project has been affirmed, the next step for the project will be determined.