It’s not generally considered the most environmentally-friendly sport in the world, but NASCAR will soon be increasing awareness of green power.
Lockheed Martin and the American Council On Renewable Energy (ACORE) have signed a sponsorship deal involving ACORE promoting clean energy technology at racetracks during the 2014 season.
ACORE will partner with NASCAR Green, the sustainability arm of National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc., in a multi-year effort to engage with NASCAR’s millions-strong audience about the benefits of renewable energy, sustainability and energy security.
“This is the perfect vehicle for encouraging and engaging young people and lifelong learners to find careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) using renewable energy as their focus,” said ACORE President and CEO, Michael Brower.
“A mirror of America, NASCAR fans thrive on the initiative, innovation and determination of their favourite NASCAR drivers and teams. And our renewable energy industry equally mirrors America with our dramatic successes building the new energy infrastructure and bringing down costs in an amazingly short time.”
Lockheed Martin will provide funds for ACORE to showcase renewable energy systems such as solar panels, biofuel demonstrations and wind turbine models at some of NASCAR’s biggest races; including the Sprint Cup Series at Daytona International Speedway in July, Chicagoland Speedway in September and Kansas Speedway in October.
NASCAR vehicles last year completed five-million miles on Sunoco Green E15, a blended ethanol fuel made from corn (although ethanol’s green credentials are hotly debated) and the organisation boasts the world’s largest solar-powered raceway. ACORE will also play a role in NASCAR’s month-long Race To Green Campaign in April.
The deal also involves the creation of summer fellowships aimed at college-aged students interested in pursuing careers in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
“With the educational components of this partnership, ACORE will help to ensure our nation’s youth are equipped to become the next generation of American renewable energy innovators, inventors and industry builders, well-prepared and fully able to create a more prosperous American future built on clean, renewable energy,” said Brower.
