RICHMOND, Va., Feb. 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Dominion Energy announced today it will provide up to $1.5 million in environmental grants this year through the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation. This competitive program, which has been expanded to regions in North and South Carolina previously served by SCANA gas and electric companies, is designed to support nonprofit organizations and schools working to improve the environment and provide educational experiences in communities served by Dominion Energy.

"Protecting and conserving the environment is an important focus of our company, and each year, our foundation supports many organizations that offer innovative and engaging environmental programs in our communities," said Hunter A. Applewhite, president of the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation. "These grants support groups that truly make a difference to protect the natural resources in the places we call home."

One such organization is the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach, Va., which was recognized with a grant in 2018 for the rescue and treatment of sea turtles hooked by recreational anglers. Watch this video to learn about the aquarium's efforts to rehab and care for turtles mistakenly hooked by fishermen on piers.

"It does take a lot of people to care for these animals at our Stranding Response Center, so support from the community and businesses, like Dominion Energy, is really appreciated," said Dr. Allyson McNaughton, veterinarian at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.

Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for grants up to $25,000 that focus on specific, short-term projects that promise measurable results to improve the environment. Also, public and private K-12 schools in eligible regions can apply for classroom grants up to $5,000 each for environmental education programs.

Eligible organizations in Connecticut, Maryland, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wyoming and other areas in Dominion Energy's footprint can submit applications through April 30, 2019.

Dominion Energy will consider grant requests that focus on one or more of the following priorities:

• Educating K-12 students and the public about environmental stewardship
• Protecting and preserving natural habitats
• Improving open spaces and making nature accessible

For details and online application, please visit: https://www.dominionenergy.com/envirogrants.

About the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation

Nearly 7.5 million customers in 18 states energize their homes and businesses with electricity or natural gas from Dominion Energy (NYSE: D). Through its Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, as well as EnergyShare and other programs, Dominion Energy contributed nearly $35 million in 2018 to community causes. The Foundation supports nonprofit causes that meet basic human needs, protect the environment, promote education, and encourage community vitality. Please visit www.DominionEnergy.com to learn more.

SOURCE Dominion Energy