Powering computers when they re doing no actual work is wasteful. A television set playing out of sight could just as well be a radio. No matter how long one stands in front of an open refrigerator, the contents are still the same. A lamp on an end table provides better reading light than a four-bulb ceiling fixture. The doors and heating vents to guest rooms and storerooms can be closed.
Technology makes it easier.
That s taxpayer money, and that s just one base. In addition, that s natural gas, electricity and money made available for other uses. That s a good question, and the safest answer is that military leaders were focusing on their real mission, which is defense rather than energy policy. We all need to be more responsible, and we ll all benefit from the savings. That could mean better pay and improved morale for military personnel, and enough power to go around.