Gettysburg Foundation Honored with Gold Award for Energy Efficiency from NRG
Dec 13, 2025
The Gettysburg Foundation has been awarded the Gold Award for Energy Efficiency by NRG Energy, Inc., recognizing the Foundation's leadership in sustainable operations at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center.
The award, part of NRG's 6th Annual Excellence in Energy Awards, honors organizations demonstrating measurable innovation and performance in energy use.
What earned the recognition
The Foundation's energy performance is built on years of systematic investment:
- Geothermal heating and cooling reduces reliance on fossil fuels
- LED lighting upgrades across the 139,000-square-foot Museum & Visitor Center
- Smart building-management systems optimize energy use without compromising visitor comfort
- Native-plant landscaping reduces water consumption and maintenance costs
- Comprehensive recycling programs minimize waste
These measures reflect a principle: stewardship of historic resources includes stewardship of natural ones.
Leading with purpose
"We are honored to receive this distinguished recognition from NRG," said Jackie Spainhour, President and CEO of the Gettysburg Foundation. "This award validates our dedicated efforts to not only preserve history, but to do so in the most environmentally responsible and efficient way possible, alongside our National Park Service partners. Our partners, staff, volunteers, and supporters all share this achievement."
Why this matters
Energy efficiency frees resources for mission. Every dollar saved on operations is a dollar invested in preservation, education and visitor experience.
Scale matters. As the National Park Service at Gettysburg's philanthropic partner, the Foundation stewards a 139,000-square-foot Museum & Visitor Center. Efficient operations protect both the site's resources and the Foundation's ability to invest in programs that serve the public.
Recognition validates principle. The Gold Award recognizes measurable results in energy performance—proof that historic preservation and environmental responsibility aren't competing priorities.
About NRG's Excellence in Energy Awards
NRG's Excellence in Energy Awards celebrate organizations that lead with purpose in three categories: Community Impact, Sustainability Leadership and Energy Efficiency. The 2025 Gold Award to the Gettysburg Foundation recognizes commitment to measurable energy performance and smarter operations.
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