For the fourth time, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island has been recognized by the Secretary of the Navy for its continued commitment to energy and water conservation and management.

“This award is evidence that Team Whidbey works together to cut energy consumption,” said Capt. Jay Johnston, NAS Whidbey Island commanding officer. “We, like any home owner or renter, pay utility costs, so it’s inherent upon us to spend taxpayer dollars wisely.”

NAS Whidbey, Naval Base Kitsap, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Keyport and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility all achieved platinum level awards, which come with a $5,000 check. The platinum level indicates the command has an outstanding energy program and had an exceptional year for energy efficiency project execution. The cash awards may be used at the discretion of the commanding officer to improve quality of life or further energy improvements on the installation.

“It takes the efforts of every active duty member and every civilian employee to once again achieve such high level awards,” said Capt. Pat Rios, commanding officer of Naval Facilities Engineering Command Northwest. “I’m very proud of each and every one of you for all that you do in conserving energy and implementing best water management practices.”

Naval Magazine Indian Island and Naval Station Everett achieved gold awards, for energy programs that are considered very good to outstanding.

Since 2007 every Northwest Region Naval installation has won a SECNAV Energy award in an ongoing effort to meet the energy reduction goals set by the president.

“Congress mandated the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requiring a 30 percent reduction by 2015 relative to a 2003 baseline. NAS Whidbey Island met that in 2010, and continues to find alternative resources to cut energy,” said Johnston. “The act also requires water consumption reduction by 2 percent annually on a 2007 baseline, which we are on track. I’m proud of our energy efforts, but it’s all our military, DoD civilians, and contractors who do their part which adds up to savings for us all.”