Constellation, a Baltimore-based energy firm, is entering a partnership with the National Hockey League that will promote the company’s brand while it works with the league on minimizing the NHL’s environmental impact.
Constellation has sponsorship deals with the Ravens and Orioles, among other professional clubs, but this is its first league-wide deal. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Under the deal, Constellation will conduct energy efficiency analyses, recommend energy management strategies at NHL venues, and support development of renewable energy sources. The savings are intended to offset the league’s carbon footprint of 550,000 metric tons during the 2014-15 season.
The partnership “reflects the most important environmental initiative ever announced by a professional sports team globally,” said Alan Hershkowitz, president of the Green Sports Alliance and a former senior scientist with the Natural Resources Defense Council. The alliance is a coalition of teams dedicated to the greening of sports.
“The NHL and Constellation are leading a cultural shift in sports toward ecologically responsible energy practices,” Hershkowitz said.
Constellation, a subsidiary of Chicago-based Exelon, which also owns Baltimore Gas and Electric Co., will assume the title of “the official energy provider of the NHL.” The NHL Network’s “NHL Live” will now be “brought to you by” Constellation.
Constellation and the league said they will partner to promote efficient energy use throughout the season, including during the Winter Classic, league All-Star game and Stanley Cup playoffs.
“By promoting responsible energy use, the NHL is setting an example for the sports industry, fans and communities,” said Joe Nigro, Constellation’s CEO.
Constellation says its retail businesses have more than 2.5 million residential, public-sector and business customers.
