Viridian Energy News

Viridian Energy Announces Market Expansion to Australia

Press Release | 2/16/2016

“Viridian is thrilled to bring a unique and differentiated opportunity to the more than 400,000 direct sellers already engaged in network marketing in Australia,” said Cami Boehme, Chief Strategy Officer, Viridian Energy. “With limited options for Australian network marketers to offer services today, we look forward to helping Aussies embrace the potential of service-based direct selling, today the fastest-growing segment of U.S. network marketing."

When an individual becomes an Independent Viridian Associate, they decide when and how much to work. Viridian then provides the tools, training and support to build a simple and rewarding business focused on helping others make a better energy choice. All Viridian Independent Associates adhere to a strict code of ethics established by the Direct Selling Association (DSA).

Since 2009, Viridian customers have avoided more than seven billion pounds of harmful CO2 emissions through the use of the company’s affordable, responsible energy products. Today, Viridian offers affordable electricity that is more than 50% renewable, natural gas with carbon offsets to mitigate usage and residential solar power to a range of customers in 19 markets throughout the United States.

“Australians understand that strong renewable energy options are critical to a sustainable future,” Boehme explained. “Viridian was founded with the vision to change the way people buy and consume energy, in order to ensure a better tomorrow. This powerful mission now provides eco-minded entrepreneurs on both ends of the globe with the opportunity to build thriving businesses and generate sustainable income, all while helping the planet.”

Viridian Energy Launches New Rate Plan for Green Energy

Press Release | 10/11/2015

“People shouldn’t have to choose between their wallets and helping the planet,” said Viridian founder and CEO Michael Fallquist. “With minus-5, we found a way to help more Americans be both budget- and environmentally conscious when it comes to energy. Viridian is truly pleased to offer this simple, straightforward solution with consistent value in what is often a turbulent and complex energy market.”

Minus-5 rates are set monthly at 5 percent below the Viridian Utility Price Index (UPI) for each utility. This means that minus-5 rates will fluctuate as utility rates do, but that the minus-5 rate will always be 5 percent below the utility rate, as measured by Viridian’s UPI. With minus-5, customers receive the same responsible energy Viridian is known for: electricity that's more than 50 percent renewable, and natural gas that is backed by carbon offsets purchased to represent 25 percent of natural gas customers’ total usage. In addition, Viridian contributes to the Simply Right Natural Gas Fund on behalf of its natural gas customers. This fund benefits organizations that support research and innovation toward cleaner and safer natural gas extraction, and advocate for increased transparency and accountability in the natural gas sector.

Viridian customers are also eligible to expand their positive environmental impact with the addition of goGREENER™ and / or goCLEANER.™ When a customer purchases goGREENER, Viridian buys Renewable Energy Credits that help that customer avoid an additional 9,121 pounds of carbon emissions each year. When a customer purchases goCLEANER, Viridian purchases carbon offsets on behalf of that customer that allow them to avoid the same amount of carbon as is absorbed by 3.3 acres of U.S. forest in a year.

“Since 2009, thousands of Viridian customers have made individual energy choices that added up to a powerful, collective impact with over 5 billion pounds of CO2 avoided,” Fallquist explained. “We’re excited to offer consumers one more way to stretch their energy budgets while helping the environment with an affordable, simple solution like minus-5.”

Viridian Energy Releases Fifth Annual Sustainability Report

Press Release | 4/22/2015

“As Viridian advances our sustainability mission, it’s important to stay rooted in the areas where our customers live, work and play”

“Since 2009, Viridian customers have helped avoid more than five billion pounds of climate-changing CO2 from being released into the atmosphere through the use of our responsible energy products,” said Michael Fallquist, Founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “We knew that if we provided the opportunity for people to choose affordable, responsible energy, they would respond, and the market was even more enthusiastic than we anticipated. Today, Viridian represents a movement that is turning back the tide of climate change, and we could not be more pleased.”

For context, Viridian Energy’s five billion pounds of avoided CO2 emissions are equivalent to:

Recycling 17,057,278,620 aluminum soda cans1

Recycling nearly 400 million copies of the Sunday edition of The New York Times1

Recycling more than 35 billion plastic bottles, which could reach to the moon and back 14 times2

Avoiding CO2 emissions from the electricity used by 312,387 homes in one year3

Annual greenhouse gas emissions from 478,116 passenger vehicles in a year3

As in years past, Viridian’s 2014 report discloses the type, tier and serial number of every Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) the company purchases to support its customers’ usage, as well as carbon offsets purchased. The 2014 Sustainability Report also offers in-depth coverage of Viridian’s five-year efforts in the sectors of Education, Global Vision and Local Change.

This April, as part of its ongoing commitment to community action, Viridian is coordinating more than 35 Earth Month sustainability initiatives. During this 30-day campaign, Viridian Independent Associates, customers and volunteers participate in a broad spectrum of local cleanup and planting projects across the company’s service territories. Last year, Viridian Earth Month volunteers around the country dedicated over 1,800 hours of service in their communities.

“As Viridian advances our sustainability mission, it’s important to stay rooted in the areas where our customers live, work and play,” Fallquist explained. “Our Earth Month initiatives encourage and engage volunteers to make sustainability efforts an integral, everyday part of their lives. It’s a great opportunity for Viridian to share our vision of a healthier, more sustainable future, and offer everyone a chance to play a role in making that happen.”

1 Equivalencies as calculated by the EPA Waste Reduction Model

2 Equivalency based on average size of 2-liter plastic bottle and distance to the moon

3 Equivalencies from the EPA Calculator

Viridian Energy Investigated Due To Customer Complaints

Npros.com | 3/15/2015

The Authority said, "The Authority has received complaints regarding the assessment of early termination fees by Viridian. Specifically, consumers allege that Viridian automatically renewed customers to a fixed rate contract at the end of a previous contract without customer consent or authorization. If the customers then left Viridian by switching to another supplier or returning to Standard Service during the term of the renewed contract, Viridian assessed an early termination fee on the grounds that the early termination fee provision was contained in the renewed contract."

The Authority has received more than 100 complaints from Viridian customers since 2012. In 2012, the state of Maryland fined Viridian $60,000 for "false and deceptive marketing practices." A class-action lawsuit was also filed in Maryland, claiming that Viridian uses a "bait-and-switch sales model" and that the company is a pyramid scheme.

Viridian issued the following statement: “Viridian Energy looks forward to our meeting with the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) this Friday and to the ongoing clarification we receive from PURA as part of our close working relationship. Viridian is deeply committed to providing the greatest possible value for Connecticut consumers in a manner that is fully compliant with both PURA standards and state law.”

Viridian Energy Launches Services in Rhode Island

Press Release | 1/17/2015

“Entrance into the nation’s second-most densely populated state represents a significant landmark in the company’s mission to offer high-quality, affordable, renewable energy to more customers for a greater collective impact on the environment and the local economy,” said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “With turbulent market conditions and extreme weather becoming more common, we’re excited about the opportunity to educate Rhode Island consumers regarding their energy options, and bring rate plans with strong value propositions.”

Since Rhode Island is a deregulated energy market, residents have the power to choose energy suppliers for their homes or businesses. Deregulation provides consumers with many options in terms of energy management, efficiency, renewable green energy products and price.

For example, hundreds of thousands of Viridian Energy customers have opted to use energy that is beneficial to the planet, as well as their budgets. Since 2009, Viridian customers have helped avoid more than 5 billion pounds of climate-changing CO2 from being released into the atmosphere through the use of renewable energy from clean sources such as wind and hydro.

“The remarkable milestones Viridian has achieved are a direct result of the efforts of our passionate network of nearly 25,000 Independent Associates,” said Meredith Berkich, President, Viridian Energy. “Their deep commitment to sustainability, community action and global initiatives has created a competitive business advantage for Viridian and is one of the key reasons we have been named one of the top 100 direct selling companies in the world for the past three years.”

Starting today, the company will offer Rhode Island consumers affordable electricity that is more than 50% renewable as well as 100% renewable electricity. In addition to a range of responsible energy options, Viridian offers eco-minded entrepreneurs a powerful opportunity to generate sustainable income and to do well by doing good. As an Independent Viridian Associate, individuals can build a simple and rewarding business by helping friends, family members and neighbors choose affordable green energy.

“Rhode Island consumers don’t have to accept whatever rate the utility is charging,” explained Fallquist. “Because this is a deregulated energy market, the power of choice is in the hands of consumers – not the monopoly utility service provider. And I fundamentally believe that everyone wins when energy suppliers are forced to compete for business.”

Viridian Energy Holds Fifth Annual Convention

Press Release | 9/18/2014

“We were pleased to host our annual PowerUP! convention at a venue that helps further these ideals as we reinvigorate our commitment to drive positive change on both local and global levels.”

PowerUP! began with tours of a nearby waste-to-energy plant that processes tons of casino and municipal waste to generate enough electricity to supply 18,000 Connecticut homes. Home to its own 16 MWe natural gas fuel tri-generation power plant, Foxwoods Resort & Casino was chosen as the venue for Viridian’s annual celebration, in part, because of its commitment to reducing its own carbon footprint and operating greener enterprises. The Foxwoods tri-gen plant supplies roughly 60 percent of the electricity used by the Resort & Casino and is capable of producing steam which can heat and cool all of Foxwoods. In addition, Foxwoods provides ongoing revenue contributions to Viridian Energy’s home state of Connecticut. Foxwoods’ most recent contribution to the Connecticut Special Revenue Fund was $11.2 million, bringing its cumulative contribution to the state to nearly $3.6 billion since 1992.

“Viridian was founded with the vision to change the way America buys and consumes energy, in order to ensure a better future,” said Michael Fallquist, President and CEO of Crius Energy and Founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “We were pleased to host our annual PowerUP! convention at a venue that helps further these ideals as we reinvigorate our commitment to drive positive change on both local and global levels.”

Key announcements at this year’s convention included growth plans for Viridian’s new price certainty rate program for electric and natural gas supply, 3DOM, now available in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Washington D.C., and further expansion of the company’s rapidly growing “Clean and Simple” solar energy product. Top-performing Associates were recognized throughout the event, culminating with a formal “Ampy” Awards Gala.

Viridian also revealed Portrero Platanal, Nicaragua, as the fifth location of its “7 Continents in 7 Years” global sustainability initiative. In Nicaragua, the group will bring light to 48 homes in a rural village, inaccessible by car, with no future prospects of grid energy supply. Since 2011, Viridian has completed a major project on a different continent each year including reforestation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest and solar power installations on schools, homes and community centers in Ghana, Indonesia and Fiji.

“The remarkable milestones Viridian has achieved are a direct result of the efforts of our passionate network of more than 20,000 Independent Associates,” said Meredith Berkich, President, Viridian Energy. “Their deep commitment to sustainability, community action and global initiatives has created a competitive business advantage for Viridian and is one of the key reasons we have been named one of the top 100 direct selling companies in the world for the past three years.”

Viridian Energy Raises The Standard For Green Energy Products

Press Release | 9/26/2013

Everyday Green, Viridian's most popular green electricity plan, has historically offered residential and commercial customers energy that is 20 percent in excess of applicable renewable state standards for renewable content. With the planned product enhancement, Viridian's Everyday Green will now supply 50 percent in excess of applicable renewable state standards. This increased renewable commitment will impact all of Viridian Energy's existing customers enrolled in the plan and all new customers who enroll.

"At Viridian, our vision and the cornerstone of our company's mission, is the belief that individual choices can make a meaningful collective impact," said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian. "Through these innovative new commitments, we will immediately increase the reduction of carbon emissions and have an important long-term effect on the demand for renewable energy. Together they are significant strides toward energy independence and the overall well-being of our environment."

Viridian is introducing carbon offsets to its natural gas products through new offerings called Simply Right™ and Simply Right 100™. Viridian will purchase carbon offsets to effectively neutralize 100 percent of greenhouse gas emissions from its Simply Right 100™ customers' natural gas usage and mitigate 25 percent of that for its Simply Right™ customers.

Further, Viridian has established the Simply Right Natural Gas Fund, which, in concert with select organizations will support research and innovation toward cleaner and safer natural gas extraction and encourage increased transparency and accountability in the industry. Viridian will contribute a portion of the proceeds from its Simply Right natural gas products to the fund, which will continue to grow with the products' rapidly expanding customer bases.

"We are proud of the Viridian community's commitment to sustainability and the positive impact of our industry-leading products and initiatives," said Fallquist. "We hope that by continually elevating the standard to which we hold ourselves and our products, we will continue to raise the bar for our entire industry."

The new Simply Right™, Simply Right 100™ and/or 50 percent Everyday Green offerings are available to customers in the 36 utility markets across nine states and the District of Columbia where Viridian operates, and will take immediate effect in the reduction of carbon emissions among Viridian's existing customer base.

Viridian Energy Demonstrates Ripple Effect with Sustainability Project

Press Release | 7/26/2013

"Simply dropping technology on a big-ticket development project would make a splash," said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian. "But by introducing the community to reliable and renewable energy technology, we're creating ripples that will touch many more people as they see firsthand that the promise of clean energy is real and practical."

Viridian intends to create lots of ripples in Indonesia on July 29 when 34 Viridian Associates and corporate staff, working in partnership with Conservation International and Goal Zero, arrive at the Gede-Pangrango National Park to bring power to the Conservation Education Center, Gibbon Rehabilitation Facility and the nearby Genteng village.

More than 50,000 visitors each year pass through the Education Center to learn about the importance of conservation. With quiet and clean solar power powering the center, visitors will experience a sustainable alternative to the diesel generators currently in place.

The Viridian team will also be planting native tree species on two hectares of land in a region that protects the freshwater supply for 30 million people on Java. They will also replace two kilometers of pipe to restore a water system that is the sole source of clean water for the village of Bodogol.

"We want our work to continue to generate benefits for people here and beyond long after we're gone," said Cami Boehme, Senior Vice President, Viridian Marketing and Brand Strategy. "That's why we're working with our like-minded partners, Conservation International and Goal Zero, to make sure our efforts are specific, targeted and part of a holistic approach to development that lays the foundation for long-term, sustainable benefits."

The Indonesia project is part of Viridian's annual global sustainability initiative, '7 Continents in 7 Years.' Asia will be the third of seven continents Viridian has visited.

Viridian's '7 Continents' program was launched in 2011 to undertake a major sustainability project on seven continents over a period of seven years, and serves as the global component of the company's sustainability initiative, 'Local Change, Global Impact.'

Viridian Energy Raises Funds for Victims of Boston Marathon Bombings

Press Release | 7/20/2013

The $10,100 total came from three sources. Viridian Energy made a corporate contribution of $5,000 to the One Fund. Michael Duggan and Jason Sun, two Viridian Associates who lead the Green Team of New England, raised an additional $5,100 including $700 from GameDay Boston, a website started by a group of young entrepreneurs that has raised more than $80,000 through the sales of Boston Strong T-shirts, for a total of $10,100 by the end of the day.

Boston Marathon attack survivor, Jarrod Clowery, and first responder, Javier Pagan of the Boston Police Department, shared their experiences with the more than 150 people in attendance and thanked contributors for their generosity.

"A bomb is the worst part of human nature, but only lasts for a second," said Clowery. "What followed the bombing was endless amounts of goodness." In a show of gratitude, Clowery called Officer Pagan on stage and surprised him with a kiss on the cheek.

"This event had a profound effect on each and every one of us who attended," said Senior Vice President of the Viridian Network, Meredith Berkich. "The gift I took away was renewed hope and confidence that goodness and humanity can prevail against all things. The outpouring of love and community support from the Viridian teams, what we call Generation V, continues to make us proud as well as humble."

The GenVCares campaign is an expression of Viridian Energy's comprehensive outlook on sustainability, including real and tangible change in the communities where Viridian operates. The company's Independent Associates are instrumental to that vision and frequently initiate events like the fundraising effort for the One Fund Boston.

"Seeing Viridian come together for the families and victims of that tragic day truly encompasses the meaning of team spirit," said Mike Duggan from Green Team of New England. "It shows that anything can be accomplished when your heart is in the right place."

Viridian Energy Completes Fourth Trip to Brazilian Amazon To PlantTrees

Press Release | 5/15/2013

“The Amazon Preservation Project demonstrates Viridian’s commitment to its mission of local change, global impact,” said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “Each visit reconfirms the need for increased focus on sustainable living. The Amazon deforestation problem is an extreme example of environmental concerns that are developing in every neighborhood, in every city, and in every state in the country. Viridian is built on the principle that small changes can make big differences and this trip is a way for Viridian to serve as a model of how to create an environment for meaningful change.”

In addition to its replanting effort, Viridian has also partnered with the local university in Manaus to create a reforestation blueprint. Part of the Amazon Preservation Project, this partnership is building a blueprint that can be followed and replicated throughout the Amazon region.During the six-day expedition, 30 sales Associates, corporate leaders, and guests tracked nutrient levels in the soil and collected data to further the reforestation blueprint. Additionally, 401 trees were planted, bringing the total to 1,269 trees planted over the last two years.

“Seeing what careless consumption of precious resources has done first hand is such a powerful reminder of the importance of providing affordable, sustainable options,” said Henri Aymonier, Viridian Associate. “Viridian’s vision is to offer a way for anyone and everyone to live a little greener and make a difference. We are proud to be associated with a company that is authentic in its purpose and its core values and we were pleased to be able to contribute to the reforestation effort in Brazil.”

Viridian plans to return to the Mamori region to continue its plan of education, reforestation, and global sustainability.

Viridian Energy Hosts Third Annual Earth Month Campaign

Press Release | 4/10/2013

“Over the years, Earth Month has created a tradition of environmental awareness that changed the paradigm of how we care for the planet” .Enhancing both the philanthropic and network-building aspects of its business, the company has seen its Earth Month celebration create a powerful ripple effect in the markets it serves and the culture of sustainable actions it encourages among its Associates.

“Over the years, Earth Month has created a tradition of environmental awareness that changed the paradigm of how we care for the planet,” said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “Now, it provides another opportunity for organizations focused on renewable resources and sustainability, including Viridian, to underscore the importance of making small choices that dramatically improve the environment. We are pleased to roll out this campaign of community events and plan to grow these events each year, helping the environmental landscape continue to change for the better.”

In order to achieve its goal of doubling the nearly 700 volunteer hours logged during Earth Month 2012, Viridian assembled a 35-person Associate task-force that worked alongside the company’s Associate Sustainability Council to organize local events in each of the company’s markets. Community members and residents in these regions are invited and encouraged to participate in projects being held in their areas.

Earth Month events span park, river and beach cleanups; tree and vegetation planting, invasive plant removal and trail improvement.

Viridian Energy to Expand into Washington DC and Delaware

Press Release | 11/17/2012

“We are pleased to announce our newest markets as we further our vision to enable significant positive impact on the environment by offering sustainable energy alternatives” .“We are pleased to announce our newest markets as we further our vision to enable significant positive impact on the environment by offering sustainable energy alternatives,” said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “Every single day, our customers make the amazing choice to contribute to the health of the environment through the simple act of using renewable energy. Offering sustainable choices that are easy for consumers to make allows our vision to spread organically, with great endurance. We’re proud to bring this opportunity to the residents of Washington, D.C. and Delaware.”

Viridian Energy offers natural gas and renewable energy plans for residential and commercial customers enabling customers to reduce their environmental impact from electricity, while often experiencing a savings on their bill. Viridian offers two electric plans, the Everyday Green plan which provides power that exceeds local renewable standards by 20 percent renewable energy and the Pure Green plan, which provides 100 percent green energy. Both plans will be available to Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco) customers in Washington, D.C., and National Grid and NStar customers in Delaware beginning November 16.

Celebrating the expansion into these new areas, the company will host an official launch event November 16-17 at the Dover Downs Hotel and Casino. The event will include presentations from the Viridian leadership team as well as some of the highest-performing members of Viridian’s independent sales force.

During the launch event Viridian will collect relief items to help in the Hurricane Sandy recovery effort. Items will be donated for distribution by the Salvation Army in New Jersey. The company has also launched GenVCares, a campaign for further hurricane relief that will donate one dollar to the American Red Cross for every new customer enrollment, Facebook share and comment on GenVCares graphic posts and Twitter Retweet up to $10,000.

Viridian’s customer base has grown exponentially, despite a lagging economy, with the company now providing natural gas and electricity to more than 200,000 customers in Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The addition of Washington, D.C. and Delaware will be significant in driving future company growth, furthering the positive impact of sustainable choices.

Viridian Energy Holds Third Annual Convention

Press Release | 9/26/2012

NORWALK, Conn.-- Viridian Energy, a leading provider of affordable, green retail energy, today announced its third annual PowerUP! convention, held in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The three day event celebrated Viridian’s substantial growth over the past year, focusing on the positive environmental impact customers have enabled to date and outlined plans for driving further adoption of Viridian’s green energy offerings. The company, now in its fourth year, has already achieved a customer base of more than 200,000 and avoided more than 452 million pounds of carbon emissions.

“In order to maintain our growth rate and contribution to the health of the environment, it is increasingly important to invigorate our sales force and provide tools and resources to move forward as a company,” said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “We put this event together with the intent of creating a transformative experience that will drive the business and provide more individuals an opportunity to live a greener lifestyle. We look forward to continuing to report positive impacts from these efforts.”

This year, Viridian set a new standard for the convention, purchasing carbon offsets for all attendees’ travel and RECs for the entire usage of Bally’s Hotel and Casino through the entirety of the event, thus making the venue itself completely carbon neutral during the convention.

Key announcements at this year’s convention included foundational growth plans for Viridian; product expansion, a new business management platform, and new training programs. The fall edition of the Green Energy Observer was also released. Other key announcements were the future launches into Delaware and Washington DC, the launch of natural gas, a 25 percent increase in customer base, and a 51 percent increase in corporate employee count.

Viridian also revealed Indonesia as the third location of its “7 Continents in 7 Years” global sustainability initiative. Since 2010 Viridian has completed a major project on a different continent each year including rainforest reforestation in Brazil and solar panel installation and lighting systems in schools and health posts in Ghana.

“The remarkable milestones Viridian has achieved would not be possible without our dedicated associates,” said Meredith Berkich, SVP of Viridian Network. “We want to provide every tool and resource our associates may require. Studies show a measurable gain in the success of associates that attend conventions and we’re pleased to support them as they grow their business.”

The convention featured speakers including John T. Fleming, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Direct Selling News, Suzanne Shelton, CEO of The Shelton Group, and Josh Dorfman, author of, “The Lazy Environmentalist,” on topics ranging from sustainability going mainstream and living greener to business strategies and personal success. Breakout sessions with company leadership provided in-depth training, marketing tips and tools, social media strategies, regulatory and compliance information.

Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year 2012 in the New York, Cleantech category, awarded to Michael Fallquist, and Viridian’s Direct Selling Association 2012 ETHOS Rising Star Award were also highlighted.

Viridian Energy Supplies Carbon Offsets for the US Open

Press Release | 8/29/2012

The carbon offset contribution is part of Viridian’s broader sustainability initiative. The company provides affordable green energy plans to residential and commercial customers, but also supports local and global environmental initiatives.

“Viridian Energy is focused on making a difference by offering cleaner energy alternatives. The US Open’s green initiative is a perfect way to demonstrate our commitment and support this noble organization as it moves into the fifth year of the program’s implementation,” said Viridian founder and CEO Michael Fallquist. "The United States Tennis Association is setting a positive example for major sports tournaments around the world and Viridian is proud to provide the vehicle for carbon neutrality."

The same message was echoed in a statement from the United States Tennis Association (USTA). “The USTA is committed to reducing its ecological impact and continuously seeks new ways to be at the forefront of the global effort to preserve the environment,” said Gordon Smith, USTA executive director and chief operating officer. “Our dedication to the US Open’s greening efforts will create a lasting legacy for the environment, as well as encourage tennis fans from all over the world to be environmental stewards.”

Viridian’s customers, independent sales associates and employees have participated in more than 20 local sustainability events in 2012 alone. The company’s decision to offset player travel for the US Open is part of its pledge to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Viridian Energy CEO Named Entrepreneur of the Year

Press Release | 6/21/2012

"It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award," Fallquist said. "Viridian started as an idea to help individuals make a large collective environmental impact by simply switching their energy supplier. It has turned into so much more. Viridian would not be the company it is today without our exceptional executive team and our dedicated independent sales associates. Their belief, support and dedication to this initial idea helped create a company that is better than I could have ever envisioned."

Under Fallquist's leadership, Viridian Energy has experienced explosive growth. In 2009, the first year of business, revenues were $2.2 million. By 2011, the third operating year, revenue topped $205.5 million. The company's customer base has grown to more than 200,000 people in Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Fallquist's vision for the company includes a long-term strategy of diversified and aggressive growth.

Now in its 26th year, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Program has honored the inspirational leadership of such entrepreneurs as Jeff Bezos of Amazon.com, Michael Dell of Dell Inc., Herb Kelleher of Southwest Airlines, Fred Smith of FedEx, Larry Page and Sergey Brin of Google, Richard Schulze of Best Buy, Andrew Mason of Groupon, Mindy Grossman of HSN, Inc., Reid Hoffman and Jeff Weiner of LinkedIn, and many more.

As a New York award winner, Fallquist is now eligible for consideration for the National Entrepreneur Of The Year 2012 Award. Award winners in several national categories, as well as the National Entrepreneur Of The Year Overall Award winner, will be announced at the annual awards gala in Palm Springs, California, on November 17, 2012. The awards are the culminating event of the Ernst & Young Strategic Growth Forum(R), the nation's most prestigious gathering of high-growth, market-leading companies.

Viridian Energy Receives DSA Rising Star Award

Press Release | 6/7/2012

Honoring the best of direct selling, DSA's ETHOS Awards recognize member companies with programs that empower independent direct sellers, and therefore fuel business processes. The Rising Star award recognizes up-and-coming direct selling companies that are dedicated to achieving a high standard of excellence in business opportunities.

"We are honored that DSA has recognized Viridian Energy as this year's Rising Star, the most coveted recognition a young company in the network marketing channel can ever hope to receive," said Meredith Berkich, SVP of Viridian Network. "We believe our associates are, in large part, the people to thank for this recognition. Their belief in us and our mission makes it our goal as Viridian direct selling executives to empower these courageous entrepreneurs with steadfast vision, a unique selling proposition, high quality support tools, comprehensive education, and a lucrative time/value proposition."

Viridian was one of three finalists in the Rising Star category. Finalists in this category have been active members of DSA for at least a year, and started direct selling operations less than five years ago. Each company has illustrated a commitment to the DSA Code of Ethics, and shows a consistent and continued pattern of growth. Rising Star finalists demonstrate a well-rounded business strategy including projections for growth in sales, salesforce and activities like charitable giving.

"DSA congratulates all 2012 ETHOS Award winners for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to direct selling," said DSA President Joseph Mariano. "These programs are excellent examples of the creativity and innovation that continue to drive our industry."

Viridian Energy has been a member of the DSA since 2010.

Viridian Energy Launches in Massachusetts

Press Release | 5/31/2012

"The people of Massachusetts have been very welcoming to Viridian and have made it clear that they are open to more responsible energy choices," said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. "Energy is a product that everyone uses, and we are pleased to help Massachusetts residents make the choice to switch their energy supplier and make a significant environmental impact. Over the past two and a half years we have helped more than 200,000 people avoid a collective 431 million pounds of carbon emissions by using Viridian's affordable green energy. We expect this impact to increase significantly with the opening of Massachusetts."

Viridian Energy offers two energy plans to residential and commercial customers. The Everyday Green rate plan comes from sources that are 20 percent more renewable than the default local option, and the Pure Green rate plan offers 100 percent renewable energy, backed by locally-sourced wind energy and certified by Green-e Energy, the highest standard for green certification in the retail energy industry.

Building on the momentum created through pre-launch meetings, Viridian will hold a local market launch event on June2nd at the Westin in Walthamfor customers, as well as current and future sales associates. People will have the chance to meet the Viridian leadership team and celebrate the company's entrance into the market at this event. As part of the launch, and in keeping with the company's commitment to hyper-local sustainability initiatives, Viridian has partnered with The Waltham Land Trust, and Massachusetts Department of Recreation to host a sustainability event in honor of National Trails Day. Viridian will be joining the 300,000 groups and individuals across the country volunteering to help maintain America's 200,000 miles of public trails.

The event is open to the public. Volunteers will meet at the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail at 2pm to assist in various trail maintenance projects and invasive species removal. To RSVP for this event, and for more information, email sustainability@viridian.com.

Viridian Energy Releases 2nd Edition of The Green Energy Observer

Press Release | 5/21/2012

While the first edition of The Green Energy Observer focused on the growing trend of renewable energy, specifically wind energy, this edition focuses on providing a visual representation of how consumer choice can have large economic and environmental effects. Within the publication, two scenarios are given to demonstrate these results. Scenario one shows if all customers who have already chosen an independent energy supplier also chose a 20% green energy plan, 196 billion pounds of carbon emissions would be avoided -- the equivalent of removing 17.5 million passenger vehicles from roadways. Scenario two shows that 378 billion pounds of carbon emissions would be avoided if every eligible customer chose a 20% green energy plan.

"As an industry leader, we are proud to differentiate ourselves from our competitors by creating something tangible to give to consumers to show them the power of their energy choices," said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. "Most people know that choosing greener energy has a positive impact on the environment, but they do not realize the significance of these decisions on a large, collective scale. We could accomplish so much more as a country if more people made more environmentally responsible choices. The visual representations in our report help tell the story of consumer choice in a deregulated market, making the information easy to understand, and empowering others to make greener choices."

The report provides a look at the impact of renewable energy on the U.S. economy. Viridian outlines the potential economic improvements that would occur if 10% of the U.S. electricity supply came from renewable sources by 2020. Electricity bills would be lowered by $22.6 billion, and 91,220 new jobs would be available--twice as many as from generating the electricity from fossil fuels. Also included are facts on the economic impact of the U.S. Treasury's 1603 renewable energy grant program. Between 2009 and 2011, the grant has provided 75,000 jobs, created 23,000 new solar and large wind projects, and had an economic output of $44 billion.

In addition to industry news and the power of energy deregulation, The Green Energy Observer highlights Viridian's commitment to supporting and advancing local and global sustainability. For Viridian's second year of its "7 Continents in 7 Years," corporate leaders and sales Associates traveled to Ghana, West Africa to install reliable solar power for rural schools, a health clinic and a community library. These innovative technologies generate the electricity needed to power LED lanterns for students to rent and take home and pharmaceutical refrigeration for local villagers.

Viridian Energy Returns from Amazon Preservation Project

Press Release | 5/17/2012

During this five day trip, 29 Viridian corporate leaders, sales Associates, and guests worked in the Mamori region of the Amazon in second growth forests. These are deforested areas where shrubs and grass are re-growing, but not necessarily original tree species. Viridian worked to replant more than 300 indigenous species that grew in the area before it was deforested.

Viridian has restructured their efforts in the region. When they began this project last year, their intent and goal was to plant 5,000 trees. However, as they got deeper in the work, they realized that simply re-planting trees was not the answer to saving and restoring the rainforest. The problem was the degradation of soil and second growth forests that produce non-original species of plants and trees which do not replenish the original forest.

Viridian therefore partnered with the local university in Manaus to replenish the forest back to an original state. In partnership with the university, they are now tracking nutrient levels in the soil before, during and after the re-plantings. They are also tracking which re-planted species take root in the area, which thrive and under what conditions, and which do not. Based on this data and research, Viridian has built a greenhouse to grow its own seedlings to replant in future trips to the region. With the information the university is tracking, Viridian is creating a reforestation blueprint that will specifically chart how to reforest efficiently and effectively, and which can be used throughout the Amazon.

"20% of the earth used to be covered by rainforest. Now, thanks to deforestation, it's 6%," said Cami Boehme, SVP of Brand Communications for Viridian Energy and executive host of this spring's journey. "Since our first trip to the Amazon during Viridian's 7 Continents in 7 Years initiative, we have transformed and evolved our mission for the Amazonian region -- instead of just focusing on replanting a large number of trees. We have restructured our efforts in the Amazon to create a viable blueprint for not only Viridian, but others as we push forward with reforestation efforts."

Additionally, Viridian has embarked on an education campaign and program for the local Amazonian community which teaches how to respect and preserve the rainforest. Viridian is partnering with local organizations to teach residents how to farm responsibly and sustainably. They are also focused on education concerning the importance of preserving the untouched rainforest areas.

"Our experience replanting trees and indigenous plants in the Mamori region was incredible. To see the effects of deforestation in person gave us a realistic picture of the harmful impact deforestation has on the Mamori region, and the rest of the world," said Joe Occhiogrosso, a Viridian sales Associate from Basking Ridge, New Jersey. "I am proud to represent an organization that continually supports sustainability efforts throughout the world. Viridian could have visited this region once and completed a reforestation project, but instead they are continually supporting their initial efforts and transforming their goal, as they perceive the needs of the rainforest and locals, to create a greater environmental impact."

This was Viridian's third trip to the Mamori region. Viridian will return to this region to continue the reforestation and sustainability efforts biannually over the next 10 years.

Viridian Energy Volunteers Donate Over 700 Hours for Earth Month

Press Release | 5/12/2012

For each event Viridian partnered with like-minded community groups and organizations to support and sponsor these local events that improved the environment and encouraged greater sustainability. Nearly 250 volunteers participated in the 17 events, donating more than 700 hours of their time. They participated in projects like beach cleanups, neighborhood sweeps, regeneration projects and tree plantings.

Specific Earth Month projects included participating in the annual Kingston, NY Clean Sweep where some nine tons of debris was picked up, street sweeping the city of New Paltz, NY, removing debris from the banks of the Mad River in Winsted, CT, planting trees at Francis Scott Key Elementary in Baltimore, MD, kayaking to Sycamore Island in Verona, PA to remove winter debris from the island, and Viridian's corporate event for Earth Month, its 3rd annual beach cleanup with Save the Sound at Cove Island Park in Stamford, CT.

In total, groups collected 24,000 pounds of debris during the sweeps and cleanups. 245 trees and 800 plants were planted in community spaces. Viridian volunteers also participated in several invasive-species removal efforts, and aided in a number of weeding and mulching projects.

"The results from our second annual Earth Month were beyond what we could have imagined. We achieved our goal of creating opportunities for our customers, associates, and community members to show their commitment to the environment through projects in their own towns and cities,'" said Cami Boehme, SVP of Marketing and Brand Communications for Viridian Energy. "This initiative was successful thanks to our dedicated independent sales associates who lead the events. They are truly committed to our core mission of local change, global impact."

Viridian Energy Begins Third Reforestation Effort in Brazil

Press Release | 5/5/2012

Deforestation in the Amazon is responsible for as much as 10% of the current global greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation also threatens the existence of many animal species, and displaces indigenous communities and native villages. Through the Amazon Preservation Project, Viridian is creating a positive, measurable environmental, social and economic impact in the Mamori region.

"Viridian's commitment to identify environmental needs, and plan sustainability projects throughout the world is a natural extension of our core mission and vision," said Cami Boehme, SVP of brand communications for Viridian Energy and executive host of this spring's journey. "Last year we started this project in Brazil. No matter where we live, all of us are impacted by the deforestation in the Amazon region. Viridian takes seriously its commitment to environmental sustainability. We are also seriously committed to finish what we started, and will not stop until the end goal is achieved. In this case restoring, replanting and preserving this region of the Amazon."

This trip reinforces Viridian's mission of local change, global vision. By traveling to Brazil bi-annually until Viridian meets its goal of planting 5,000 trees the company will be able to restore, protect, and preserve a portion of the Mamori region, making a significant positive impact on the indigenous communities, native villages and globally.

Viridian's first trip to the Mamori region of Brazil in March 2011 marked the beginning of the company's '7 Continents in 7 Years' corporate pledge in which Viridian undertakes a major sustainability project on each of the seven continents over a period of seven years. As an ongoing effort to support the work Viridian completed in its first visit to Brazil, Viridian returned to the region in November of 2011 and will return biannually over the next decade. The next trip is planned for November 2012.

Viridian Energy Celebrates Earth Month with Sustainability Campaign

Press Release | 4/3/2012

Viridian has planned community events throughout the month of April in the company’s current markets of Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey and Illinois. They will also host sustainability events in Massachusetts, where the company is engaging with communities prior to launching customer enrollment in June. Viridian has teamed up with community groups and green organizations to support and sponsor local events that are focused on improving the environment and encouraging greater sustainability.

“Our goal for Earth Month is to provide our customers, associates, and community members ways to engage on a local level, but also ultimately contribute to the overall global impact and mission of Earth Day,” said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “Viridian provides renewable energy for these communities, but as an organization we realize that renewable energy is only a small portion of the whole picture. That is why we have organized these local events and have partnered with like-minded organizations; to increase our sustainability efforts, and make a greater global impact.”

Viridian employees and independent associates will participate in local sustainability events that range from park clean-ups to tree and community garden plantings, and invasive species removal. Members of the communities are also invited, and encouraged, to take part in these events.

Viridian’s Earth Month campaign also extends to an internal commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. For the month of April, Viridian and its employees have pledged to reduce monthly paper consumption, electricity usage, and to green their commute to and from work. Viridian is also hosting weekly social media fundraising blitzes for environmental organizations. For those interested in becoming an independent sales associate at Viridian, during the month of April Viridian is significantly discounting joining fees.

Viridian Energy Announces Launch Date for Massachusetts Market

Press Release | 4/2/2012

NORWALK, Conn., Mar 28, 2012 -- Viridian Energy, a leading provider of affordable, green retail energy, announced the launch date of June 1, 2012 for services in Massachusetts. Massachusetts is Viridian’s most recent expansion in the company’s rapid growth and development plan, and is the seventh state Viridian provides energy services for.

Viridian offers high-quality, affordable renewable energy that contains a minimum of 20% locally-sourced, renewable electricity. They plan to offer their service to National Grid and NStar customers, which comprise over 90% of the state’s consumers. By simply switching to Viridian’s affordable, greener electricity rate plans, residents of Massachusetts can make a significant impact in reducing their individual carbon footprints without changing their behavior or paying more for energy.

“I am pleased we can now offer service to residents in Massachusetts. Viridian provides a realistic and affordable way to help people do something better for the environment. Each individual effort adds up to a significant collective impact,” said Michael Fallquist, founder and CEO of Viridian Energy. “People increasingly understand how important green energy is to our economy in addition to the environment. Green energy development is an engine for local job growth, and we are proud to offer our customers an easy way to be part of something that not only benefits them on a personal level, but also provides a positive impact to their local environment and economy.”

The pre-launch for the Massachusetts market began on February 1, 2012, and since then Viridian has already started hosting community sustainability projects and growing its independent sales associate network. In February Viridian hosted a Yarmouth beach cleanup and a service day at Blue Star Equiculture in Palmer. For ‘Earth Month’ in April, Viridian is hosting sustainability service projects throughout the state of Massachusetts for members of the community to participate in.

Massachusetts residents who are interested in joining the expanding and dynamic Viridian team by becoming an independent sales associate for Viridian are encouraged to attend one of Viridian’s nightly opportunity meetings across the state, where corporate executives attend at least every week. Since February 1 over 300 Massachusetts residents have joined the Viridian team as an independent sales associate. Independent sales associates in the Massachusetts area have been spreading the word that Viridian is offering their services starting in June, and are helping to organize the community sustainability projects.

“As one of the first to join Viridian’s independent sales associate network in Massachusetts, I must say, I am excited that Viridian will begin offering their services in June!” said Donna French, an independent sales associate for Viridian. “Viridian is a wonderful company who is committed to helping people make a significant positive impact on the environment through simple choices. It is an honor to be a part of an organization with a high level of commitment to the environment, its customers, and associates.”