Land Ports of Entry (LPOE)
GSA not only develops and maintains procedures to ensure that land ports of entry are developed consistently and to an acceptable standard, it is also a federal leader in aggressively pursuing energy efficiency opportunities for its facilities. In partnership with the Department of Homeland Security, Applied Research launched multiple projects to evaluate ways to increase energy efficiency while maintaining border security.
Beginning in 2007, research studies have focused on the following:
Exterior Lighting
Lighting for the exterior of LPOEs is crucial to supporting the mission of the U.S Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). CBP officers rely on effective illumination to inspect vehicles, passengers, and cargo, and to perform surveillance of the site and beyond the site to the border. The amount of energy needed for these operations is often at odds with federal mandates requiring prudent management of taxpayer dollars and conservation of natural resources. Research focused on whether enhancing the quality of light would reduce the quantity of light needed, thereby meeting both agendas.
The study first incorporated technical data with user inputs to update lighting at select LPOE sites. It then synthesized post occupancy evaluations findings and client feedback into draft standard design guidelines for implementation into both new and existing LPOEs.
Wind Energy
Applied Research evaluated wind as a possible power source for future LPOE facilities. If the available wind proves sufficient and reliable, GSA will support the construction and installation of wind-powered electrical generation equipment at certain LPOE locations. The Wind Resource Fact Sheet discusses the situation and potential benefits of a wind turbine installation.
Renewable Energy
Applied Research evaluated the potential of renewable energy resources at selected land and ferry ports of entry. Based on resource availability and present utility costs, Applied Research determined the optimal mix of renewable energy technologies for 40 selected sites. It used a detailed cost analysis to help determine the locations with the highest priority, and how best to allocate or finance funding for each site and technology. The report, Renewable Energy Optimization for Land Ports of Entry, can be found on the Design and Construction Research Publications page.
