Easterseals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut Showcases Energy Cost Saving Projects in Partnership with the Connecticut Green Bank
Improvements are estimated to produce $1.3 million in savings over the lifetime of the new equipment
WINDSOR, Conn. (October 9, 2025) — Easterseals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut, in partnership with the Connecticut Green Bank, recently showcased its significant energy upgrades at its Deerfield Road facility during an open house on Wednesday, October 8. The enhancements at the 22,100-square-foot building, including a 218-kilowatt rooftop solar system and advanced lighting controls, are projected to save the organization approximately $1.3 million in energy costs over the lifetime of the new equipment.
From left to right, Michael Mastriano, VP of Solar Division of FSG, Windsor Town Manager Peter Souza, Robin Sharp, President and CEO of Easterseals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut, and Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of Connecticut Green Bank.
The project was financed through the Green Bank’s Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program, which provides affordable, long-term financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades to commercial properties. Oxford, Connecticut-based Facility Solutions Group, Inc. installed the system.
“We’re so grateful to the Connecticut Green Bank for a partnership that has allowed Easterseals to upgrade our facility with solar and smart lighting helping us to operate more efficiently and sustainably.” said Robin Sharp, President and CEO of Easterseals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut. “And, the best part is that the savings and revenue we generate from these improvements will go right back into our community services, allowing us to further our mission.”
The energy upgrade project received approximately $714,000 in C-PACE financing. Additionally, Easterseals utilized the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) direct pay option through the IRS, a provision of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) that allows tax-exempt entities to access expanded tax credits for clean energy technologies. This provision has made C-PACE and solar energy more accessible to non-taxpaying organizations like Easterseals.
“Easterseals is such an important part of Connecticut’s community, providing critical support services to help people thrive,” said Brian Garcia, President and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “At the Connecticut Green Bank, our mission is to empower community organizations like Easterseals to invest in long-term energy cost saving solutions that can help strengthen their impact while continuing to uplift the people they serve.”
Easterseals has a longstanding commitment to sustainability. Established in 2008, its social enterprise, EnviroShred, focuses on the secure and eco-friendly destruction of confidential data, employing veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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About Easterseals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut
For over 75 years locally and 100 years nationally, Easterseals has been an indispensable resource for individuals with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and their families. Through high-quality programs, including medical rehabilitation, autism services, Veteran and Military services, workforce development, adult day care and more. Easterseals also operates social enterprise businesses such as EnviroShred and EnviroClean. In schools, workplaces, and communities, we are fostering environments where everyone is included and valued — making a real and positive impact on us all. Join us in ensuring that everyone – regardless of age or ability – is 100% included and 100% empowered. Learn more at www.easterseals.com/Hartford.