The Edison Electric Institute recently announced the winners of the 2025 Corporate Citizenship Award during its Powering Engagement conference. EEI is a national association that represents all U.S. investor-owned electric companies. The award, presented annually and selected by a panel of executives, recognizes EEI member companies for innovative programs that support the growth and development of the communities they serve.
Entergy received the award in the volunteerism category for its “Greening Mardi Gras” initiative that seeks to create a more sustainable Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans.
“We are grateful to be named the 2025 EEI Corporate Citizenship Award winner for volunteerism,” said Patty Riddlebarger, Entergy vice president of corporate social responsibility. “Our partnership with Grounds Krewe to create a more sustainable carnival celebration reflects Entergy’s dedication to fostering the growth, development, and well-being of the communities we serve. By embracing initiatives that honor tradition and promote environmental awareness, we are proudly preserving the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras while reducing the environmental impact.”
Each year, nearly 2.6 million pounds of waste is left behind during the Mardi Gras season, clogging storm drains and littering the streets of New Orleans. Six years ago, that narrative began to change. With the formation of Grounds Krewe, and in partnership with our employees, Entergy took action to be part of the solution.
“Our member companies don’t just power American homes and businesses—they empower communities,” said EEI President and CEO Drew Maloney. “This year’s award winners reflect our industry’s deep commitment to improving customers’ lives and ensuring the local communities we serve thrive. I’m proud to recognize their extraordinary efforts.”
As the only Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, we embraced this challenge, becoming Grounds Krewe’s first and longest-standing corporate partner. Our employees partnered with Grounds Kreweto help recycle more than 50,000 pounds of waste each year. Grounds Krewe also provided nearly 800,000 sustainable throws to Mardi Gras organizations last year, which helps to reduce environmental impacts on the city and surrounding communities.
Through initiatives like this one that honor tradition while promoting environmental stewardship, we’re committed to sustainability programs that better our communities.
