Constellation

Generous philanthropic funding from Constellation, the nation's leading clean energy company, supports an array of Aquarium conservation initiatives. Constellation's ongoing commitment to enhancing our waterfront campus included the installation of a solar tree on Pier 4 in 2022 and leading support for the creation of our innovative Harbor Wetland® exhibit, opened in 2024. The solar tree, a large-scale sculpture, is a functioning solar power collector and symbol of energy stewardship. It is just one part of the two organizations' combined commitment to supporting clean energy development and lowering the Aquarium's emissions to net-zero by 2035.

With the opening of Harbor Wetland, Constellation's active support ensures community access to a thriving urban green space and a living classroom for high-quality STEAM education programs.

Inside the Aquarium, Constellation Conservation Carts throughout the exhibit galleries educate and entertain guests. The carts encourage guests to have conversations with Aquarium staff experts while engaging with animals, examining artifacts and exploring interactive iPad programs. Topics include choosing sustainable seafood, mitigating marine debris, reducing your carbon footprint, adopting "enjoy-respect-protect" ethics and addressing ocean acidification, among others.

By partnering with Constellation and OneEnergy Renewables on a 4.3-megawatt grid-connection solar generator, the National Aquarium is receiving a significant portion of renewable energy credits from the project. The solar farm project is part of a 25-year electric supply agreement with Constellation to help the Aquarium manage utility costs and encourage the development of renewable energy in Maryland.

In addition to the use of solar technology, the Aquarium's partnership with Constellation has made it possible to incorporate other best practices in sustainable operations, such as replacing fluorescent lightbulbs with LED bulbs throughout the Aquarium's campus.