PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., recently earned recognition for its energy conservation accomplishments in fiscal year 2012, when it cut energy consumption by 11 percent.
The Department of the Navy awarded the depot a platinum rating based on its public awareness projects, metering, water conservation, energy management and consumption and renewable energy source programs.
Parris Island has complied with the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the 2009 Reinvestment Act with a total drop in consumption of 32.4 percent compared to the 31 percent demanded by 2015, according to Richard Pierce, the depot's energy manager.
Approximately 10 to 12 percent of all energy consumption on base comes from clean alternative fuel sources, said Pierce.
The rating is the highest achievable without officially earning the Secretary of the Navy's top Energy and Water Management Award.
The platinum rating brings a $5,000 cash award to be used for further energy improvements.
"The money is destined to be used to enhance energy programs on the island," said Pierce.
In 2011, Parris Island was also ranked as a top contender and received a $5,000 prize that was used to install a wind turbine on the island, said Pierce.
The depot is ranked fourth in the Marine Corps for its water and energy programs and has won the Secretary of the Navy's top award eight times, said Pierce.
"We have achieved a level of excellence and are working to maintain that excellence," said Pierce.
The depot will be formally recognized in a ceremony Oct. 16-18, 2013, at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.
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