Constellation Energy to Sponsor Chicago Bulls & Blackhawks

Constellation Energy, a longtime energy supplier to thousands of Illinois businesses will continue its renewable energy support for Chicagoland’s sports franchises by sponsoring the first “green” games for the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center.

As a prelude to Earth Day, Constellation will sponsor “green” games for the Blackhawks on April 1 and the Bulls on April 2 by purchasing Green-e Energy Certified renewable energy certificates(RECs) to match the electricity use on each game day. RECs represent the environmental benefit of electricity generated by wind and therefore avoid carbon dioxide emissions. Constellation sponsored similar efforts last year for the Chicago Bears, Cubs and White Sox.

“Constellation is thrilled to help the Bulls and Blackhawks enhance their energy efficiency and environmental sustainability and welcomes the opportunity to literally power these two great teams by supplying electricity to the United Center,” said Bruce Stewart, chief marketing officer for Constellation. “Using RECs to avoid greenhouse gas emissions from electricity use is an effective approach for Chicago’s storied sports franchises as it helps raise awareness and support by their legions of loyal fans.”

In addition to powering the United Center, Constellation also supplies electricity to Wrigley Field and the Bears’ Halas Hall team offices and practice facilities.

“Through our new relationship with Constellation Energy, we’re in a position to work with a national industry leader as we continue to look for ways to improve our environmental performance and to educate our fans about the importance of energy conservation,” said Michael Reinsdorf, president and chief operating officer of the Chicago Bulls. “One of the first activations of this valuable partnership is the Bulls ‘Go Green Game’ on April 2. We look forward to working with Constellation Energy on this event and other fan-focused initiatives.”

Chicago Blackhawks Executive Vice President Jay Blunk, said: “Constellation’s greening of the Chicago Blackhawks game on April 1 supplements several of our team’s environmental efforts. We take pride in working together with Constellation and the United Center on this initiative.”

It also will be an opportunity for fans to learn more about the growing trend to shop and save on home electricity, just as consumers shop for internet or phone service.

About 262,000 Illinois residents have chosen new home electricity suppliers in the past year. Constellation Energy, through its Constellation NewEnergy retail business, offers Illinois residents savings up to 18 percent off ComEd’s current rate and up to 22 percent off current rates in the Ameren service territories.

by Ismail Uddin