PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--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, and economic impact, their consideration of climate change, and sustainability, and their 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, a national decarbonization leader with the most extensive portfolio of district energy systems, provides sustainable, reliable, and resilient energy to over 230 million square feet of building space nationwide. Vicinity provides steam, hot water, and chilled water for heating, cooling, sterilization, and humidification to commercial buildings and campuses. Vicinity continuously invests in its infrastructure and the latest technologies to remain the energy solution of choice for commercial building decarbonization. For more information, check out www.vicinityenergy.us.
