Impact of Environmental, Spatial, Operational, and Policy Factors on Military Facility Performance

Abstract

Military maintenance and administrative facilities operate within complex environments shaped by environmental exposure, spatial configuration, operational demands, and institutional constraints, often resulting in discrepancies between predicted and actual building performance. While existing research has examined individual contributors to building performance, few studies evaluate how these factors interact within real-world military environments. This study addresses that gap by examining how environmental, spatial, operational and policy-related factors collectively influence energy performance in military facilities. A mixed-methods approach was used, integrating Energy Use Intensity (EUI) over a three-year period, site and spatial analyses, climate data, and semi structures interviews with facility personnel. Results indicate that Building A operates at approximately a 53% higher EUI than Building B despite similar functions and the same geographic region, reflecting increased system demands associated with environmental exposure and spatial conditions. Observations and interview data further reveal operational inefficiencies, including inconsistent system control, simultaneous heating and cooling, and limited coordination between building systems. Institutional constraints, including procurement regulations, funding limitations, and restricted decision-making authority, limit the implementation of identified improvements. Building performance is therefore shaped by the interaction of environmental, spatial, operational, and institutional factors rather than design intent alone. These findings highlight the need for integrated, constraint-based strategies that address real world operational conditions within existing military environments.