This new partnership reflects Ørsted and Eversource's commitment to delivering clean, renewable energy to Connecticut, while also working to support local communities throughout the state.
"As we pursue our goals to deliver clean renewable energy to Connecticut and the New England region, we recognize the significant way in which our work fighting climate change aligns with the mission of Mystic Aquarium," said David Ortiz, Head of Market Affairs for New England for Ørsted. "We are proud to support the aquarium's efforts to protect our oceans and to educate younger generations on how we can best preserve and improve our world's natural environment."
"We are thrilled to partner with Mystic Aquarium on this new, exciting initiative which will provide important research funding to help protect and preserve our oceanic resources and wildlife, while also supporting educational programming and career resources for children and undergraduate women," said Mike Ausere, Vice President of Business Development at Eversource. "Eversource is committed to working with local partners like Mystic as we continue our work serving as a catalyst for clean energy in the region."
"Mystic Aquarium is a strong proponent of offshore wind energy, and we believe Revolution Wind is a winning solution for Connecticut and Rhode Island's energy needs," said Larry Rivarde, Chief Operating Officer of Mystic Aquarium. "The opportunity to engage our community in marine conservation research and job training through this project will be extremely beneficial to young people and our entire region."
Educational programs launching this summer at the aquarium with support from Ørsted and Eversource include the "Youth Works" Program and the Women in Science Program.
Through "Youth Works," Mystic Aquarium will offer paid internships to students in neighboring New London, giving students the chance to obtain valuable, real-world experience in a range of potential careers. Interns will have the chance to work side-by-side with staff on everything from finance, to marketing, to zoological operations.
Meanwhile, the Women in Science series will feature events and workshops throughout the month of August, highlighting women in various scientific fields as they participate in webinars and panel discussions. In addition, the program will also provide internship opportunities for undergraduate women to explore careers in veterinary science and marine research.
Ørsted and Eversource have committed to investing directly in Mystic Aquarium operations as well, with Revolution Wind set to become the official sponsor of Mystic's Animal Rescue Program. The program is essential to the region as it is the sole federally authorized entity empowered to respond to marine mammal stranding and distress calls along the coast of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and certain parts of New York. Funding for these efforts will allow the amazing, life-saving work performed by the aquarium's veterinarians to continue, including vital rehabilitation services that take place at the on-site clinic.
Finally, this grant will help build a brand-new exhibit at the aquarium focused on ocean wind energy. Scheduled to arrive in the Spring of 2022, Wind, Water, Wave will showcase the potential for ocean wind energy and what it will mean for our clean energy future. The exhibit will feature interactive equipment and infographic displays that celebrate achievements in marine engineering and highlight the impact of the Revolution Wind project.
Ørsted and Eversource are developers of Connecticut's first offshore wind farm, Revolution Wind. The project will deliver 304 megawatts of clean energy to the state and 400 megawatts to Rhode Island, generating enough electricity to power more than 350,000 homes across both states.
