Published Thursday, July 29, 2010 12:14 AM

Aggie brand energy on the way

By MATTHEW WATKINS
matthew.watkins@theeagle.com

If T-shirts, hats and 12th Man towels aren't enough for Texas A&M fans, they'll soon be able to show their school spirit on their power bills.

No, it's not an Aggie joke. The university announced this week that it's joined a partnership with Champion Energy Services and Branded Retail Energy to promote Aggie Energy, electricity for A&M fans.

Specific details of the deal haven't been announced, but it's expected to bring in millions of dollars for A&M, said Shane Hinckley, assistant vice president for business development.

"The athletic department will be the recipient of some of the revenue generated, but the university will also receive money for scholarships, Bonfire Memorial maintenance and Corps of Cadets scholarships," Hinckley said.

Bryan and College Station residents won't have full access to the product because they live in regulated energy markets. But people in deregulated areas, like most of West Texas, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston will be able to purchase the 100 percent renewable energy.

Still, Hinckley said, Aggie fans in the Bryan-College Station area will likely be able to enroll in a limited program in the future.

Rates have not been announced, but officials said they will be comparable with other renewable energy prices. Buyers may also receive access to free or discounted tickets to A&M athletic events, Aggie merchandise or other benefits that aren't available to the general public. The product will officially launch Sept. 3.

"Aggie Energy is a unique opportunity for loyal alumni and fans to support the university and its athletics program with something they need and use every day," said Scott Fordham, president and CEO of Champion Energy.

The company also announced a similar deal with the University of Texas. Both schools have participated in unconventional marketing ideas, including burnt orange and maroon shuttles at airport parking lots. The Longhorns have also recently announced H2Orange, a purified water for sale in a bottle shaped like the University of Texas at Austin Tower.

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