The J. R. Simplot Company’s potato processing plants at Aberdeen, Idaho, and Othello, Wash., have been recognized by the federal government for energy conservation through the prestigious Energy Star program.

The Simplot plants are among only 53 industrial sites nationwide that received the energy conservation award for 2009, and they’re two of the first french fry plants to ever earn the recognition.

“We’re very proud to receive the award,” said Don Sturtevant, Simplot manager of energy purchasing. “I think this sets us apart from many other companies and demonstrates our commitment to energy excellence.”

To qualify for the Energy Star award, a building or manufacturing plant must score in the top 25th percentile based on the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Energy Performance Rating System, according to the EPA website. To determine the performance of a facility, EPA compares energy use among other, similar types of facilities on a scale of 1-100. Buildings that achieve a score of 75 or higher may be eligible for the Energy Star award. The EPA rating system accounts for differences in operating conditions, regional weather data, and other important considerations.

Sturtevant said other Simplot facilities are working toward the recognition.

“Since this award is given on an annual basis, we can’t rest on our laurels and think that we have arrived because two of our plants received the award,” he said. “Our goal is for all of our plants to earn the Energy Star recognition.”