Philadelphia Zoo To Be Powered By Green Energy

The Philadelphia Zoo this week announced  GDF SUEZ Energy Resources, the retail energy business of GDF SUEZ Energy North America, will supply its electricity for the next two years, beginning with 25 percent of the Zoo's electricity consumption offset by renewable energy certificates.
            RECs represent the environmental attributes of electricity generated from wind, solar or other renewable power facilities.
            The RECs, which are Green-e Energy Certified, will be donated to the Zoo by GDF SUEZ Energy Resources and will displace an estimated 3,195,990 pounds of carbon dioxide per year – the equivalent of taking 314 cars off the road.  
            In utilizing the certificates, the Zoo will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage development of domestic sources of cleaner, renewable energy.
            "The Philadelphia Zoo is committed to making environmental responsibility and conservation part of our daily activities," said Vikram H. Dewan, President and CEO.  "We have instituted a diverse range of programs and practices that help us do our part to reduce global warming and mitigate the effects of climate change on wildlife.  Our support of green energy reflects this dedication, and we thank GDF SUEZ Energy Resources for supporting our efforts," says Dewan.  The Zoo's plan is to begin with 25 percent of renewable energy usage, moving to something much greater, which will help establish the standard in this area.
            "It is an honor to serve America's first Zoo," said Robert Wilson, President and CEO of GDF SUEZ Energy Resources.  "Its focus on energy efficiency and carbon reduction – a focus that our company shares – has not only raised the environmental bar for zoos across the country, but has also set a standard for eco-friendly practices."
            GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA is one of the largest non-residential retail energy suppliers in the U.S. and currently serves commercial and industrial customers in 11 markets: Delaware, Texas, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C.  The company serves approximately 73,000 accounts for customers having a peak demand ranging from 50 KW to more than 200 MW.
            To learn more, visit the GDF SUEZ Energy Resources website or call 1-866-999-8374.


4/11/2011

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