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Air Force Reserve unit tests solar-powered cart

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman David K. Flaherty
  • 452 AMW/PA
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, Calif. --  The new cart costs about $8,000 - roughly $1,200 more than its plug-in counterpart - but it could create savings over time through reduced utility bills and a longer battery life.

With summer temperatures topping 90 degrees, March reservists are no strangers to the heat. June brought record-breaking temperatures to Southern California and, according to the National Weather Service, the heat isn't easing up any time soon. While some reservists on base sweat it out, others are taking advantage of the sun's rays.

For the past four months, Air Force Reserve Command's 452nd Civil Engineering Squadron has been testing a solar-powered electric golf cart on base that is not only energy efficient but could also save the Air Force money. So far, it's been a big hit.

"We're the first unit to try it out, and we're pleased with it so far," said Gerald Haas, a pollution prevention management specialist in the 452nd CES. "We just have to make sure that we park it in the sun. So far we've only had to charge the battery twice."

With reduced utility bills and increased battery life, a solar-powered cart could save the Air Force $235 annually compared to a plug-in cart, according to cost estimates released by Cruise Cars, Inc., the cart's manufacturer. For March ARB people who use electric golf carts regularly, just extending the battery life is a big plus.

"The other cart kept dying right and left, and the batteries only last about a year," said Paul Pitman, the 452nd CES air program manager. "These batteries can last for three-plus years, so you're saving money that way too."

Mr. Haas said the solar-powered cart's fire-engine red finish initially attracted attention and when people learned it is solar-powered they want to know more about it.

"There's a lot of sun out here, so I can see where this would be useful," said Capt. Jonathan Bergmann, the group practice manager for the 452nd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron. "I think going solar looks like a pretty good idea."

So far, the base only has one solar-powered cart but more can be purchased through base contracting.

"If it's going to cut down on the power that's taken from the base's energy supply, I'm all for it," said Master Sgt. Cedric Perry, 452nd Air Mobility Wing ground safety specialist. "It really shows the advantage of solar power." (Air Force Reserve Command News Service)