Tag Archive for: Latest News

Ridgefield High School Unveils 1 MW Solar Carport, Generating $1.5 Million in Savings and Advancing Clean Energy Goals

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New solar installation provides clean power, reduces energy costs, and supports long-term sustainability for the community.

RIDGEFIELD, Conn. – August 19, 2025 – The Town of Ridgefield, in partnership with Davis Hill Development and the Connecticut Green Bank, is proud to announce the completion and commissioning of a 1,038 kW solar carport at Ridgefield High School, a landmark project that reflects the town’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and educational excellence.

Generating approximately 1.3 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, the system will reduce the school’s energy costs and carbon footprint while delivering an estimated $1.5 million in savings over the next 25 years. Designed to power the equivalent of nearly 100 homes per year, the solar installation also serves as a highly visible symbol of Ridgefield’s leadership in climate action and community stewardship.

“This project is a great example of what’s possible when forward-thinking communities and strong partners come together,” said Micah Brill, Vice President of Asset Management at Davis Hill Development. “Ridgefield had a clear vision, and with the support of the Green Bank and Patriot Renewable Energy Capital, we were able to bring that vision to life–delivering real savings, clean energy, and long-term value to the town.”

The project was financed through an innovative structure that included support from the Connecticut Green Bank and a tax equity investment from Patriot Renewable Energy Capital. AEC Solar served as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partner, completing the carport on an accelerated summer schedule to avoid disruptions to the school year. The project also benefited from federal Investment Tax Credits enabled by the Inflation Reduction Act–highlighting how supportive national policies can translate into local cost savings and environmental impact.

“At the Green Bank, we’re always looking to foster partnerships that make the benefits of clean energy projects a reality, including creating significant energy savings and supporting jobs in our communities,” said Mariana Cardenas Trief, Director of Investments at Connecticut Green Bank. “This is the latest of multiple solar projects that we have worked with DHD Renewables and the Town to complete, and we are proud to continue this support as they reduce their energy costs and move Connecticut closer to its clean energy goals.”

The solar system is uniquely integrated into four separate Town- and School-owned electric meters, allowing for optimal use of on-site solar production and full participation in programs like Connecticut’s Non-Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (NRES), Zero Emission Renewable Energy Credits (ZRECs), and Class I RECs.

This solar carport builds on Ridgefield’s broader sustainability initiative, which began nearly a decade ago and includes rooftop solar installations at eight other schools and municipal buildings.

About Davis Hill Development
Davis Hill Development (DHD), a subsidiary of Skyview Ventures, is a leading clean energy developer providing turnkey solar and storage solutions that deliver environmental, financial, and community benefits. Since 2013, DHD has developed and now operates nearly 200 distributed energy projects across 15 states.

DHD helps municipalities, businesses, and landowners reduce energy costs through solar installations and community solar programs—including initiatives that expand access for low-to-moderate income (LMI) residents. The company also leases rooftops, parking lots, and land for solar development, turning underutilized space into reliable revenue. Learn more at www.davishilldevelopment.com.

About Patriot Renewable Energy Capital (“PREC”)
PREC is a tax equity provider for distributed generation and utility-scale renewable energy projects nationwide. The firm specializes in efficient, developer-friendly structures that help unlock the full value of federal tax credits. With a proven track-record of over $150 million invested, PREC supports a diverse portfolio of solar, wind, battery storage, and hydroelectric assets. The firm is affiliated with Jay Cashman, Inc., a multidisciplinary development and construction company.

Connecticut Green Bank and GoodLeap Partner to Create an AI-Powered Virtual Power Plant Initiative to Unlock Savings for Homeowners and Enhance Grid Reliability

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The partnership will aggregate solar and energy storage systems through the Energy Storage Solutions program to incentivize homeowners and reduce strain on the electrical grid

Hartford, CT and San Fracisco, CA– August 13, 2025 – The Connecticut Green Bank and GoodLeap, a leading finance and technology sustainable home solutions platform, today announced a strategic partnership to develop and operate Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) across Connecticut. This collaborative effort, enabled through the State’s Energy Storage Solutions program, will focus on deploying residential solar systems and battery energy storage to help lower energy costs, improve grid resilience, and advance Connecticut’s clean energy goals.
Enabled by GoodLeap’s AI-powered proprietary software, GoodGrid, the fastest growing VPP network in the US, and integrated with the utility’s Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), the VPPs can aggregate thousands of residential solar and storage systems into coordinated networks to provide grid services, such as peak demand reduction, helping reduce strain on the electrical grid, potentially deferring distribution infrastructure investments for utilities, and will better position Connecticut to meet its clean energy deployment targets. This can help lower costs for all homeowners as more expensive sources of energy can be avoided during these peaks, and will increase access to distributed energy resources.

“Together with GoodLeap, we are working to ensure that Connecticut residents — especially those in vulnerable communities — benefit from clean, resilient, and affordable energy solutions,” said Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “We saw GoodLeap leading on VPPs in other states around the country and felt that their technology, products and services were needed in Connecticut to help our families realize the benefits of these distributed energy resources. This initiative will bring new resources to homeowners and ratepayers while supporting our state’s climate and energy goals.”

Eligible Connecticut homeowners will receive monthly cash rewards through the GoodGrid cash rewards, advancing the goals of the Energy Storage Solutions program. The Green Bank will also support the partnership through technical assistance to streamline project development and interconnection, as well as stakeholder and community engagement to boost awareness and participation while ensuring equitable access.

“We are thrilled to work with the Connecticut Green Bank to scale residential clean energy and energy storage solutions across the state,” said Daniel Lotano, Chief Operating and Strategy Officer at GoodLeap. “Our technology has already helped tens of thousands of homeowners across the United States earn money for supporting a more reliable grid, and we’re glad to bring our AI powered VPP software and our deep residential customer expertise to Connecticut.”
Through this agreement, Connecticut Green Bank and GoodLeap will partner in ongoing collaboration on performance metrics, grid integration, and community impact reporting.

The Energy Storage Solutions program is overseen by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, is paid for by electric ratepayers, and is administered by the Connecticut Green Bank, Eversource, and UI. For more information on the Energy Storage Solutions program, visit https://energystoragect.com.

 

About GoodLeap

GoodLeap is a technology company delivering best-in-class financing and software products for sustainable solutions, from solar panels and batteries to energy-efficient HVAC, heat pumps, roofing, windows, and more. Over 1 million homeowners have benefited from our simple, fast, and frictionless technology that makes the adoption of these products more affordable, accessible, and easier to understand. Thousands of professionals deploying home efficiency and solar solutions rely on GoodLeap’s proprietary, AI-powered applications and developer tools to drive more transparent customer communication, deeper business intelligence, and streamlined payment and operations. Our platform has led to more than $30 billion in financing for sustainable solutions since 2018. GoodLeap is also proud to support our award-winning nonprofit, GivePower, which is building and deploying life-saving water and clean electricity systems, changing the lives of more than 2 million people across Africa, Asia, and South America. To learn more about GoodLeap, visit, follow and connect with us at goodleap.com.

Solar for All Hartford Celebrates Expanding Solar and Battery Storage Access

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More than 350 Hartford residents have installed solar energy systems through the program, saving on energy costs 

HARTFORD, Conn. (August 6, 2025) – In a powerful display of community and clean energy progress, the City of Hartford, Connecticut Green Bank, and PosiGen hosted a “Solar for All Hartford: Solar Celebration” at a local PosiGen customer’s home on Blue Hills Avenue. The event celebrated the successful Solar for All Hartford initiative, launched in 2018, which aims to help Hartford homeowners save money on energy costs through the installation of solar energy and battery storage systems.

Along with the city’s support, PosiGen and Connecticut Green Bank designed the Solar for All Hartford program to make solar energy and battery storage accessible and affordable to all homeowners, regardless of income level. Since its inception, more than 350 Hartford residents have made the switch to solar energy. In addition to rooftop solar, the program now includes battery storage, an important new component of PosiGen’s proven model. This enhancement gives homeowners greater energy resilience, helping them keep the lights on and meet critical needs.

The celebration featured a speaking program that included remarks from U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, City of Hartford officials, and Connecticut Green Bank and PosiGen leadership, as well as customers who shared their personal experiences about the benefits of going solar.

“Bolstering energy efficiency, lowering electricity costs, and delivering reliable energy are just a few of the reasons solar is critical to our state’s clean energy future,” said Senator Blumenthal. “I applaud Solar for All’s efforts to make solar more affordable and accessible for all Hartford families.”

“The Solar for All Hartford campaign demonstrates how a unified partnership, grounded in shared vision and moral commitment, can transform community well-being,” said City of Hartford Director of Sustainability Cecelia Drayton. “By engaging residents meaningfully, the campaign has paved the way for equitable access to solar energy for everyone.”

“While the key environmental and economic impacts can be measured with data, hearing residents talk about using the cost savings from solar to pay other bills or how battery storage prevents the loss of expensive, life-saving medicines during a power outage reminds us why this work is so important,” said Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank.

“PosiGen is grateful for our long-term partnerships with the city of Hartford and Connecticut Green Bank that have helped make our “Solar for All” mission a reality in Connecticut,” said PosiGen VP of Public Policy Kyle Wallace. “The affordable rooftop solar and batteries we provide families in Hartford and across the state increase energy affordability, enhance reliability, and are a critical part of Connecticut’s clean energy future.”

“I no longer have to worry about skyrocketing summer bills,” said Hartford resident Dr. Kaydian R.

“It’s very worth it,” said Hartford resident Yahaira A. “I’m so glad I did it because the savings have just been through the roof.”

With hundreds of families already seeing the benefits of solar energy, Solar for All Hartford is proving that smart energy solutions can also be fair, inclusive, and life-changing. The future is bright for homeowners ready to power up and save.

For more information about Solar for All Hartford, visit posigen.com/solar-for-all-hartford.

Citizens Continue to Drive Strong Investment in Green Liberty Notes Supporting Small Business Energy Efficiency

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Eleven consecutive raises have reached the maximum raise amount, more than $3.6 million has been raised cumulatively from investors in Connecticut and across the country 

 

Hartford, CT (July 3, 2025) – CGB Green Liberty Notes LLC, a subsidiary of the Connecticut Green Bank, successfully closed the thirteenth Green Liberty offering, reaching its maximum raise amount for the eleventh consecutive time. This offering had the highest number of total investors, continuing the trend of strong engagement from previous investors while attracting new investors to participate in the $350,000 raise.  In total, more than $3.6 million has been raised from Connecticut citizens and nationwide investors in support of small businesses improving their energy efficiency and reducing their energy costs.    

Green Liberty Notes, which are offered quarterly, can be purchased with a minimum investment of just $100. The Notes are offered through Green Bank’s partnership with Honeycomb Credit using their online crowdfunding website. 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.  

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. 

To sign up to receive email notifications about these quarterly offerings, please visit  https://www.ctgreenbank.com/greenlibertynotes-signup/ 

 

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Clean Energy Industry Contributes More Than $7 Billion to State’s Gross Regional Product as Employment Growth Continues

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Nearly 46,000 workers across 4,500 companies propel Connecticut’s clean economy, according to the state’s fifth Clean Energy Industry Report from the Joint Committee of the Energy Efficiency Board and the Connecticut Green Bank Board of Directors

Hartford, CT (May 20, 2025) – Connecticut’s clean energy industry in 2023 contributed more than $7.01 billion to the state’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) while jobs in this sector grew by 3.9 percent. This job growth accounted for 7.5 percent of Connecticut’s total statewide employment growth between 2022 and 2023, significantly outpacing the state’s overall employment growth, according to the recently released 2024 Connecticut Clean Energy Industry Report. The sector has nearly surpassed 46,000 workers, climbing above pre-Covid-19 employment levels, and the state has more than 4,500 companies working in the clean energy sector. The energy efficiency subsector remains the largest technology sector in the state’s clean energy industry and was the primary driver of job growth.

This is the fifth industry study produced by the Connecticut Green Bank, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Eversource, and United Illuminating, Southern Connecticut Gas and Connecticut Natural Gas, subsidiaries of Avangrid Inc., operating through the Joint Committee of the Energy Efficiency Board (EEB).

“The clean energy industry continues to grow its impact in our state, adding well-paying jobs and bolstering the state’s economy. While the numbers are important, we must also mention the value that these workers and companies provide to our families, businesses, and communities, especially those in the energy efficiency subsector who are helping people save money and reduce the energy cost burden,” said Brenda Watson, Executive Director at the North Hartford Partnership and Chair of Connecticut Green Bank and Energy Efficiency Board joint subcommittee. “Despite positive trends in employment growth, challenges remain in filling skilled labor positions and bringing females and historically marginalized groups into the clean energy sector. As advocates, we need to prioritize these areas of potential growth and continue to support programs that sustain this demand for workers.”

This analysis from BW Research shows employment divided into five major technology sectors, their component sub-technologies, and industry or value chain segment. The five sectors are: energy efficiency; clean energy generation; alternative transportation; clean grid and storage; and clean fuels. All employment data presented is based on the 2024 United States Energy and Employment Report (USEER).

Some other key findings include:

  • Clean energy job growth in Connecticut since last year’s Clean Energy Industry Report was the strongest it has been since 2015.
  • Connecticut’s clean energy employment growth outpaced that of other Northeastern states between 2022 and 2023.
  • Connecticut’s clean energy industry expanded across all technology sectors from 2022 to 2023, and the fastest-growing sectors – Alternative Transportation (16.3 percent), Clean Grid and Storage (7.6 percent), and Clean Energy Generation (7.1 percent) – outpaced national growth rates.
  • Between 2022 and 2023, clean energy employment grew across all value chain segments in Connecticut, with the largest job gains in Construction, Other Services, and Professional and Business Services.
  • The clean energy economy accounted for 2.4 percent, or $7.01 billion, of Connecticut’s GRP in 2023. This is a 3.1 percent increase from 2022, which is a similar increase to the prior year (3.2 percent).
  • As of 2023, more than 4,500 clean energy companies, firms, and establishments exist within Connecticut.

To access the full report, please visit the Green Bank’s societal impact page or download directly. A webinar to discuss the findings will be held on Friday, May 30 at 1 pm. To register please visit https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1955387319245862234.

About the Joint Committee

Pursuant to Section 16-245m(d)(2) of the Connecticut General Statutes, the Joint Committee shall examine opportunities to coordinate programs and activities contained in the plan developed under Section 16-245n(c) (i.e., Comprehensive Plan of the Green Bank) with the programs and activities contained in the plan developed under Section 16-245m(d)(1) (i.e., Conservation and Load Management Plan), and to provide financing to increase the benefits of programs funded by the plan developed under Section 16-245m(d)(1) so as to reduce the long-term cost, environmental impacts, and security risks of energy in the state.

To support the Joint Committee, the following is a principal statement to guide its activities: The Energy Efficiency Board and the Connecticut Green Bank have a shared goal to implement state energy policy throughout all sectors and populations of Connecticut with continuous innovation towards greater leveraging of ratepayer funds and a uniformly positive customer experience.

Governor Lamont Announces Several Connecticut Correctional Facilities Now Operating on Solar Energy, Creating Cost Savings While Reducing Emissions

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(HARTFORD, CT – April 14, 2025) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that seven solar energy systems have been installed and are now operating at six of Connecticut’s correctional facilities in a suite of projects that will generate millions in cost savings while delivering clean, renewable energy to the facilities.

Because 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:

  • Cheshire Correctional Institution, Cheshire (2.4 megawatts)
  • Enfield Correctional Institution, Enfield (181 kilowatts)
  • Manson Youth Institution, Cheshire (2.2. megawatts)
  • Osborn Correctional Institution, Somers (2.2 megawatts)
  • Robinson Correctional Institution A, Enfield (83 kilowatts)
  • Robinson Correctional Institution B, Enfield (167 kilowatts)
  • Willard Correctional Institution, Enfield (1 megawatt)

Green Liberty Investment Offerings Continue to Exceed Maximum Raise Amount Thanks to Citizen Demand 

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Ten 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   

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Hartford, 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.  

Connecticut Green Bank Launches 12th Green Liberty Notes Offering 

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Successful 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.