PHILADELPHIA, April 26, 2022 – Vicinity Energy has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability with “The Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence” by Governor Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
The annual award acknowledges schools, businesses, community organizations, and civic leaders working on projects that promote environmental stewardship in Pennsylvania. Honorees are selected for their efforts in environmental protection, innovation, partnership, economic impact, consideration of climate change, sustainability, and support for Environmental Justice areas.
In a crucial step towards Vicinity’s commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions, Vicinity has incorporated LR100™ into its fuel mix—a biogenic fuel composed of waste vegetable oil collected from Philadelphia’s restaurants and food services businesses. LR100™ is a clean fuel source that will reduce air emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter by 50% and sulfur dioxide emissions by nearly 99%.
“We are thrilled to support Philadelphia in its efforts to decarbonize and offer locally- sourced energy to our customers,” said Matt O’Malley, chief sustainability officer of Vicinity Energy. “With the help of our local partners, we have been able to reduce the amount of dangerous greenhouse gases in our atmosphere and keep waste and pollution from harming our community. It’s a truly circular solution we’re proud to be a part of.”
“These awards represent a commitment to creating a better Pennsylvania for today and tomorrow,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “I’d like to commend Vicinity Energy for their dedication and much deserved recognition.”
Earlier this month, Vicinity Energy announced its plan to electrify its district systems in Boston and Cambridge and utilize eSteam™, the first-ever carbon-free energy product powered by renewable energy. Vicinity will begin to implement the same plan at its Philadelphia facility in the near future.
To read more about Vicinity and its commitment to innovation and the environment, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s announcement here.
About Vicinity Energy
Vicinity Energy is a clean energy company that owns and operates an extensive portfolio of district energy systems across the United States. Vicinity produces and distributes reliable, clean steam, hot water, and chilled water to over 250 million square feet of building space nationwide. Vicinity continuously invests in its infrastructure and the latest technologies to accelerate the decarbonization of commercial and institutional buildings in city centers. Vicinity is committed to achieving net zero carbon across its portfolio by 2050. To learn more, visit https://www.vicinityenergy.us or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.
Media Contact
Vicinity Energy
Sara DeMille
Marketing and Communications
857-955-5073
sara.demille@vicinityenergy.us
