HARTFORD, Conn. – February 11, 2025 – GreenGain, a new pilot program geared towards smaller manufacturing companies in Connecticut, is continuing to accept applications to participate in the program now through February 25. The program is open to business owners, executives, and department heads in smaller manufacturing companies—no prior sustainability experience is required to apply.
Recently launched by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Office of Manufacturing in partnership with the Connecticut Sustainable Business Council (CTSBC) and the Connecticut Green Bank (Green Bank), GreenGain provides training, subject matter expertise, and matching funds to help smaller manufacturing companies in the state integrate energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other technologies and strategies into their operations. The program will support manufacturers in building more sustainable and resilient businesses, boosting economic growth, performance, and competitiveness.
“Connecticut’s smaller manufacturers are uniquely positioned to lead the way in sustainable innovation,” said Heather Burns, CEO, CT Sustainable Business Council. “GreenGain offers them the tools to navigate industry challenges while balancing sustainability goals, ensuring they remain competitive and resilient. We’re excited to work with the companies that have already committed to the program and hope to add more before we launch our monthly training sessions on February 26.”
One of the companies signed on to the program is Bristol-based medical device manufacturer Beekley Corporation. The company began its sustainability journey with its first EcoVadis submission in April 2024, which earned Beekley a Bronze Medal from the sustainability-rating organization and placed it in the Top 35% Globally for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) performance. Since then, Beekley has created a sustainability committee that has set corporate sustainability goals and policies. The company is leveraging GreenGain to build upon its solid sustainability foundation and expand initiatives with the program’s support and training.
“Beekley Corporation is excited to join Connecticut’s new GreenGain Program,” said Maureen O. Gallo, President, Beekley Corporation. “Our EcoVadis rating highlighted key opportunities and actionable insights, and we look forward to leveraging GreenGain’s support as we advance our sustainability journey. As a small business, it’s an invaluable opportunity to learn from industry experts and adopt impactful practices that drive positive change.”
GreenGain provides participants with monthly training sessions led by experts in sustainability and green manufacturing, as well as representatives from larger manufacturers with robust corporate sustainability programs. Upcoming sessions include:
- Session 1: Introduction to Sustainability in Manufacturing
February 26th, 9:30 AM
- Session 2: Carbon Footprinting for a Business Advantage
March 26th, 9:30 AM
- Session 3: Leveraging Certifications, Standards, and Frameworks
April 30th, 9:30 AM
- Session 4: Navigating Energy Efficiency Programs and Clean Energy Financing
May 14th, 9:30 AM
In addition to the monthly training sessions, participating manufacturers can qualify to receive funding support to implement sustainability practices, perform energy audits, complete energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy projects, install carbon accounting software, and more.
Through GreenGain’s voucher program, companies can apply for matching funds to finance related projects and initiatives.
GreenGain is funded through the Office of Manufacturing’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund (MIF) and is administered by the Green Bank through a partnership with CTSBC.
To learn more about GreenGain or to apply, visit ctsbcouncil.org/green-gain.
Governor Lamont Announces Several Connecticut Correctional Facilities Now Operating on Solar Energy, Creating Cost Savings While Reducing Emissions
/in Community Solutions, Investment Solutions, NewsBecause correctional facilities operate nonstop 365 days a year, they are among the largest consumers of energy of all state-owned facilities.
“Installing solar energy systems at correctional facilities is a way that we can deliver cost savings in the operations of state government while also reducing our carbon footprint,” Governor Lamont said. “Correctional facilities provide a necessary public safety service for our communities, and their around-the-clock operations require a significant amount of energy to function. I am glad that we could get these projects completed and that our correctional facilities can begin taking advantage of the benefits of solar energy.”
The seven systems will collectively deliver 8.3 megawatts of clean, renewable energy to the correctional facilities, saving the state more than $11 million in energy costs over the lifetime of the panels and reducing carbon emissions by the equivalent of approximately 5,000 metric tons annually.
The projects are a collaboration between the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC) and the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services (DAS), along with the Connecticut Green Bank and TotalEnergies, a global integrated energy company. They were financed by the Connecticut Green Bank in partnership with TotalEnergies. The company will own, operate, and maintain the systems through a power purchase agreement executed by DAS.
“With our 13 facilities operating on an around the clock basis 365 days a year, we are always looking for ways to reduce our energy costs,” DOC Commissioner Angel Quiros said. “The fact that we can do so by utilizing a clean energy source is an added bonus.”
“These seven projects are a win-win for the state,” DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman said. “They will reduce our carbon footprint and save significant money for taxpayers. This has been a collaborative effort, and we look forward to building on this progress with other state agencies in the years to come.”
“Solar projects of this size and scope have significant benefits, and take time and coordination to complete, which makes it necessary to gather an excellent team of state and private capital partners,” Bryan Garcia, president and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank, said. “Thanks to the attention and collaboration of everyone involved, the Green Bank was able to use our Solar MAP process to streamline each step of going solar, from design to contracting to financing and energization. Building on this success, we will continue to work together to finalize more projects in our pipeline and help the state meet our climate goals while reducing energy costs.”
“The successful completion of the DOC’s seven solar installations demonstrates large-scale, distributed clean energy is both feasible and reliable,” Eric Potts, vice president of TotalEnergies Renewables USA, said. “These projects provide significant cost savings for the DOC while directly contributing to the state’s 2040 zero-carbon electricity target. TotalEnergies is proud to once again play a vital role in the public sector initiatives that drive sustainable outcomes.”
The correctional facilities utilizing these solar energy systems include:
Susan Auslander, Meadow Ridge Solar Committee Honored by the Connecticut Green Bank
/in Building Solutions, Community Solutions, News“It is with great excitement that I can recognize Susan Auslander with the President’s Award for 2024,” said Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “Susan’s leadership is a great example of the Green Bank’s vision for a planet protected by the love of humanity.”
“Our Meadow Ridge solar project has been a fun learning experience for my fellow residents and me. Even into our 90s we can continue to learn and innovate,” said Susan Auslander, chair MR Residents’ Solar Committee and Secretary, Residents Association Board. “May the Green Bank’s remarkable achievements over a 10-year period continue to inspire more solar projects around our Nutmeg State.”
State Sen. Ceci Maher (D-26) and State Rep. Anne Hughes (D-135) also honored Susan and her fellow Solar Committee members for their efforts.
“Susan Auslander’s hard work and perseverance resulted in millions of dollars of energy cost and emissions savings. Susan’s impact on Meadow Ridge, both from the solar success side and a modeling of community advocacy and leadership, is evidence that all of us can take action and enact change,” said Sen. Maher. “It’s an incredible accomplishment. On behalf of the state legislature, I’d like to thank her for her leadership and achievement as she proudly accepts this award.”
“I am truly humbled to represent the determination of this community, led by resident Susan Auslander and her allies at Meadow Ridge, and to participate in meaningful policymaking at the state level to address the climate crisis and renewable energy transition,” said Rep. Anne Hughes. “We got to partner with the Green Bank and demonstrate the possibilities and opportunities of collaboration, funding resources and the will to decarbonize and save energy costs for the community. This is how good government works for the community.”
“Every step of this process—from our first discussions with the Solar Committee to flipping the switch in December—has been collaborative. We at Meadow Ridge are grateful for the vision and tenacity of Susan and the Solar Committee, and for the essential role the Connecticut Green Bank played in bringing this project to life,” said Meadow Ridge Chief Operating Officer Brett Mehlman.
2024 Green Bank Award Winners Announced
/in Building Solutions, Community Solutions, Contractor Solutions, Home Solutions, NewsGreen Liberty Investment Offerings Continue to Exceed Maximum Raise Amount Thanks to Citizen Demand
/in Investment Solutions, NewsTen consecutive raises have exceeded their maximums, more than $3.3 million has been raised cumulatively from investors in Connecticut and across the country
Hartford, CT (March 24, 2025) – CGB Green Liberty Notes LLC, a subsidiary of the Connecticut Green Bank, successfully closed the twelfth Green Liberty offering, surpassing its maximum raise amount for the tenth consecutive time. More than 90 investments were received in original increments of $1,000 or less, a new record. To allow for more investors to participate in this innovative and certified green investment opportunity, this was the sixth offering that featured a maximum raise limit of $350,000. In total, more than $3.3 million has been raised from Connecticut citizens and nationwide investors in support of small businesses improving their energy efficiency and reducing their energy costs. This was the first issuance offered through the Green Bank’s partnership with Honeycomb Credit using their online crowdfunding website.
Green Liberty Notes, which are offered quarterly, can be purchased with a minimum investment of just $100. To date, more than 60% of original investments have been $1,000 or less, and more than half of the investors have been Connecticut residents. In total, individuals from 43 states have invested in Green Liberty Notes.
Investments in the Green Liberty offering support Eversource’s Small Business Energy Advantage (SBEA) program, which enables small businesses in Connecticut to reduce their energy costs through efficiency upgrades and zero-interest loans. The Connecticut Green Bank and Amalgamated Bank (America’s largest B Corp bank) recently celebrated the purchase of more than $100M of SBEA loans, driving environmental benefits and economic growth in local restaurants, town halls, community organizations, and more.
As a result of the climate benefits associated with the SBEA program, this Green Liberty offering has been reviewed and designated a Green Bond by Kestrel, a leading provider of external reviews for green, social and sustainability bond transactions and a Climate Bonds Initiative Approved Verifier.
“The overwhelming success of these Notes is a testament to the desire of investors to support the green economy while earning a secure, competitive return on their investment. We are excited to see more people from Connecticut and investors from more than 40 states across the country getting involved in these offerings,” said Bert Hunter, EVP and Chief Investment Officer of the Connecticut Green Bank. “In addition to these quarterly offerings, we are looking into other opportunities to help engage and support our communities and to make available to our investors.”
For more information about investment opportunities, please visit invest.ctgreenbank.com.
Statement on EPA’s Action on NCIF
/in NewsHartford, CT (March 12, 2025) – The Connecticut Green Bank stands with the other awardees of the National Clean Investment Fund (NCIF) competition through the Inflation Reduction Act as we continue our collective efforts to reduce the energy burden on families and businesses, create jobs in our communities, and improve public health through cleaner air and water. This week’s unlawful action by the EPA will undoubtedly slow the clean energy economy in Connecticut, which supports more than 45,000 jobs and continues to grow year over year, and now accounts for 2.4 percent, or over $7 billion, of Connecticut’s Gross Regional Product.
The Green Bank’s winning NCIF bid, submitted through our partnership with the Coalition for Green Capital, would enable our model to increase investment in and deployment into energy efficiency upgrades for single and multifamily homes, solar and storage projects at schools and municipal buildings, and electric buses and clean transportation initiatives. Since 2011, we have successfully worked with partners to create nearly $3 billion in investment in similar projects across our state.
We will continue to evaluate next steps and urge the EPA to restore the lawfully awarded funds.
March 2025 Newsletter
/in Newsletters, NewslettersGreen Bank launches their second green liberty offering, announces enhancements to c-pace, annual awards, and more
Connecticut Green Bank Launches 12th Green Liberty Notes Offering
/in Investment Solutions, NewsSuccessful crowdfunding program continues supporting local small businesses and economic growth.
Hartford, CT (February 27, 2025)—CGB Green Liberty Notes LLC, a subsidiary of the Connecticut Green Bank, today announced the launch of its award-winning 12th offering. Now in its fourth year, the crowdfunding campaign is made possible by Honeycomb Credit, an online marketplace for impact investing.
“Our raises over the past few years have been a tremendous success, and we’re proud to continue that momentum,” said Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “This program bridges the gap between the climate investment marketplace and our local economy by allowing investors across the country, including the communities of our state, to directly support energy efficiency for Connecticut small businesses.”
Featuring a low minimum investment of just $100, a short one-year term, and an easy online purchase process, Green Liberty offerings were created to be accessible to nearly anyone who wants to invest.
In total, more than $3 million has been raised from Connecticut citizens and buyers from 40 states nationwide. Over 60% of original investments have been $1,000 or less, with more than half of the investors being Connecticut residents.
Investments in the Green Liberty Notes offering support Eversource’s Small Business Energy Advantage (SBEA) program, which enables small businesses in Connecticut to lower their energy expenses through efficiency enhancements and interest-free loans. Due to the climate benefits associated with the SBEA program, Kestrel has reviewed and verified this Green Liberty offering for its environmental attributes.
Green Liberty Notes can be purchased at www.greenlbertynotes.com.The previous Green Liberty offering was the ninth consecutive offering to surpass its maximum raise amount, so investors are encouraged to act quickly to secure their participation in the next offering.
Previous investors can now track all active Green Liberty Notes investments through the Honeycomb platform, which provides a centralized location for investors to access. Reinvesting is streamlined through the Honeycomb wallet, allowing investors from the ninth round of Green Liberty Notes to reinvest both principal and interest into the latest offering.
Additionally, investors who participated in the ninth round and choose to invest in this offering—whether by reinvesting or contributing a different amount—will receive an interest rate “boost” as a token of appreciation for their ongoing support of the Green Liberty Notes.
For more information about this investment opportunity, please visit www.greenlibertynotes.com.
GreenGain Program Accepting Applications through February 25
/in NewsHARTFORD, Conn. – February 11, 2025 – GreenGain, a new pilot program geared towards smaller manufacturing companies in Connecticut, is continuing to accept applications to participate in the program now through February 25. The program is open to business owners, executives, and department heads in smaller manufacturing companies—no prior sustainability experience is required to apply.
Recently launched by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Office of Manufacturing in partnership with the Connecticut Sustainable Business Council (CTSBC) and the Connecticut Green Bank (Green Bank), GreenGain provides training, subject matter expertise, and matching funds to help smaller manufacturing companies in the state integrate energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other technologies and strategies into their operations. The program will support manufacturers in building more sustainable and resilient businesses, boosting economic growth, performance, and competitiveness.
“Connecticut’s smaller manufacturers are uniquely positioned to lead the way in sustainable innovation,” said Heather Burns, CEO, CT Sustainable Business Council. “GreenGain offers them the tools to navigate industry challenges while balancing sustainability goals, ensuring they remain competitive and resilient. We’re excited to work with the companies that have already committed to the program and hope to add more before we launch our monthly training sessions on February 26.”
One of the companies signed on to the program is Bristol-based medical device manufacturer Beekley Corporation. The company began its sustainability journey with its first EcoVadis submission in April 2024, which earned Beekley a Bronze Medal from the sustainability-rating organization and placed it in the Top 35% Globally for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) performance. Since then, Beekley has created a sustainability committee that has set corporate sustainability goals and policies. The company is leveraging GreenGain to build upon its solid sustainability foundation and expand initiatives with the program’s support and training.
“Beekley Corporation is excited to join Connecticut’s new GreenGain Program,” said Maureen O. Gallo, President, Beekley Corporation. “Our EcoVadis rating highlighted key opportunities and actionable insights, and we look forward to leveraging GreenGain’s support as we advance our sustainability journey. As a small business, it’s an invaluable opportunity to learn from industry experts and adopt impactful practices that drive positive change.”
GreenGain provides participants with monthly training sessions led by experts in sustainability and green manufacturing, as well as representatives from larger manufacturers with robust corporate sustainability programs. Upcoming sessions include:
February 26th, 9:30 AM
March 26th, 9:30 AM
April 30th, 9:30 AM
May 14th, 9:30 AM
In addition to the monthly training sessions, participating manufacturers can qualify to receive funding support to implement sustainability practices, perform energy audits, complete energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy projects, install carbon accounting software, and more.
Through GreenGain’s voucher program, companies can apply for matching funds to finance related projects and initiatives.
GreenGain is funded through the Office of Manufacturing’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund (MIF) and is administered by the Green Bank through a partnership with CTSBC.
To learn more about GreenGain or to apply, visit ctsbcouncil.org/green-gain.
Due to High Demand, Connecticut’s Battery Storage Program Opens New Tranche of Commercial Incentives
/in NewsStrong commercial and industrial demand prompts shift in program capacity allocation; residential installations continue to grow, including in low- and moderate-income households.
HARTFORD, Conn. (January 20, 2025) – The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) recently announced updates to the Energy Storage Solutions program, including the opening of Tranche 3 of the commercial and industrial (C&I) incentives as well as the reallocation of 140 megawatts (MW) of capacity from the residential sector to the C&I sector to match the growing demand for storage. This reallocation will help the program achieve its goals faster and at a lower overall cost while allowing more C&I property owners to benefit.
In the residential sector, the market has seen a steady increase in battery installations for homes across Connecticut, including nearly 100 approved projects for low- and moderate-income customers. Residential customers can still receive up to $16,000 in upfront incentives, with customers that qualify as low-income receiving $600 per kilowatt hour (kWh) and customers residing in underserved communities receiving $450 per kWh. These residential incentives can also qualify for a 50% adder if the customer is located on a grid circuit that experiences a greater frequency or duration of power outages than other customers. Incentives are designed to decrease over time as program capacity targets are achieved. The sooner families and businesses act to make their homes and buildings more resilient through onsite battery storage, the better.
Other approved changes to the Energy Storage Solutions program include but are not limited to:
All Energy Storage Solutions program changes were made as part of the Year Four Decision in Docket No. 24-08-05, released on December 4, 2024. The program is paid for by electric ratepayers, overseen by PURA, and administered by the Connecticut Green Bank, Eversource, and UI.
For more information on Energy Storage Solutions, visit energystorageCT.com.
Hitchcock Printing installs solar system to power their facility
/in Building Solutions, NewsNew Britain business will save more than $1.2 million in energy costs
Hartford, CT (January 16, 2025) – The Connecticut Green Bank is pleased to announce the closing of Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing for a solar photovoltaic system at Hitchcock Printing & Distribution Services, located at 191 John Downey Drive in New Britain. The system is estimated to save the business more than $1.2 million in avoided energy costs over the next 20 years. Founded in 1904 by Edwin Rogers Hitchcock, the company runs a modern 21,000 square foot facility with a highly skilled workforce and state-of-the-art equipment to provide printing, creative design, finishing, and mailing services.
“The addition of our solar system is a key to staying competitive now and in the future,” said Anthony Bracco, President of Hitchcock Printing. “State of the art equipment, and a highly trained youthful workforce accompanied with a plan to manage our energy costs will ensure that we have an edge in the years to come.”
The 227-kw system was developed and installed by Smart Roofs Solar Inc. in Monroe.
Since 2013, C-PACE financing has helped building owners complete more than 400 projects for estimated energy costs savings of nearly $420 million. C-PACE financing allows commercial property owners to install green energy upgrades today and pay for them over time, covering up to 100% of costs at low-interest rates with terms up to 25 years.
“We are seeing continued interest in C-PACE from energy-intensive businesses seeking ways to reduce their energy-cost burdens, especially through the addition of solar systems,” said Mackey Dykes, Vice President of Financing Programs at the Connecticut Green Bank. “It’s exciting when companies with long histories in their community, like Hitchcock Printing, take advantage of green technologies to enhance their bottom line.”
For more information about C-PACE, please visit ctgreenbank.com/cpace