PHILADELPHIA — The Academy of Natural Sciences will offset its expected energy use with 100 percent renewable energy over a two-year period with Green-e certified renewable energy certificates donated by GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA, the nation’s oldest natural history museum announced.
Renewable energy certificates represent the environmental attributes of electricity generated from wind, solar or other Green-e certified renewable power facilities. Organizations may use the certificates to reduce their indirect greenhouse gas emissions and help support the operation and development of domestic sources of cleaner, renewable energy.
According to GDF SUEZ, Green-e is the nation’s leading independent certification and verification program for renewable energy and greenhouse gas emissions reductions in the retail market.
“The Academy historically has had a strong commitment to environmental research and protection and to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability,” said Academy President and CEO George Gephart. “Our partnership with GDF SUEZ furthers our commitment to the environment, and we are delighted to have this opportunity to work together with them.”
Robert Wilson, president and CEO of GDF SUEZ Energy Resources, said, “Like the Academy of Natural Sciences, we have a longstanding commitment to sustainability. We are proud of this new relationship and grateful for the opportunity to help support the Academy’s environmental initiatives, mission, and programming.”
In addition to the mutual focus on environmental responsibility, Academy officials also cited pricing confidence and the willingness of GDF SUEZ, the retail energy business of GDF SUEZ Energy North America, to understand environmental issues of particular interest to the institution as other drivers in the contract decision.
Founded in 1812, the Academy is the oldest natural science research institution and museum in the Americas and a world leader in biodiversity and environmental research. Its museum is a major tourist attraction in Philadelphia. Its Center for Environmental Policy informs and engages constituents, promotes solutions, and builds awareness on important environmental topics.
GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA is the second largest non-residential retail energy supplier in the U.S. and serves commercial and industrial customers in Delaware, Texas, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C.
Photo: ANSP
