The Air Force Real Property Agency has been seeking developer inputs on a Statement of Need covering a solar generation facility destined for some 3,300 acres at Edwards AFB, Calif. The deadline for comments is July 21, but developers who qualify will have until Sept. 18, per the SON, to file their offers. The land, which is on the northwest corner of the base, would be operated under an enhanced use lease provision. Edwards will be hosting an industry day forum on July 28 to discuss the solar project. USAF already has created a solar field at Nellis AFB, Nev., recently visited by President Obama, who declared the solar field a “shining example” of the potential for renewable energy. DOD also wants the services to collaborate on these new energy-saving projects. (Edwards SON)
Three of four congressional committees with influence over defense policy have voted to change the official name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War—but final approval of the Pentagon rebrand is months away and not yet assured.