The demand for electricity in Connecticut continues to outpace available generating capacity. In addition, very little new capacity is being built in the state. As a result, demand for electricity, especially peak demand, is placing upward pressure on rates.

To stimulate the construction of generating capacity, the Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC) has been authorized to offer financial incentives to assist commercial and industrial customers with the cost of installing customer-owned electric generating equipment. Incentives are also available for conservation and load management projects that reduce system demand. Collectively, these installations are commonly referred to as distributed resources.

This program includes: 

• Low interest loans;

• Discounts for the cost of natural gas, and;

• An exemption from certain electric costs for backup service.

In addition, customers that use a ‘clean’ fuel, or install a combined heat and power project, can earn renewable energy credits that can be sold in the wholesale electric market.

For more information, or to discuss the process, contact:
Paul Carver (860) 827-2773 paul.carver@po.state.ct.us

Generating facilities that utilize renewable forms of energy are eligible to receive incentives grants but may qualify for higher incentives through programs offered by the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund. For information about the incentives that are available through the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund go to www.ctcleanenergy.com or contact one of the following representatives of the Fund.

Keith Frame (860)-563-0015 keith.frame@ctinnovations.com
Dale Hedman (860)-563-0015 dale.hedman@ctinnovations.com

State law requires that a portion of Connecticut’s electricity be supplied from Class I, Class II or Class III fuel sources. Generators that use these fuel sources are awarded renewable energy credits, or RECs, that can be sold in the wholesale electric market. You can learn more about Connecticut’s renewable portfolio standards by using the following link.

http://www.dpuc.state.ct.us/DPUCINFO.nsf/$All?OpenView&Start=1&Count=30&Expand=10#10

Low Interest Loans

A low interest loan program is available for customer-side distributed resource projects of 50 kW or greater. The interest rate will be 1% below the customer’s applicable rate or no more than the prime rate. Contact the following for information about the loan program.

Banc of America Courtney Guzman 646-855-2676
courtney.guzman@bankofamerica.com

DPUC Maureen Hoffman 860-827-2811
maureen.hoffman@po.state.ct.us

Distributed resource projects that use natural gas can qualify for reduced rates from Connecticut Natural Gas, Southern Connecticut Gas or Yankee Gas Services Company. Under this aspect of the program, certain distribution charges will be waived. Contact one of the following utility representatives for information on this aspect of the program.

Yankee Gas Bryan Barbera 860-665-6249 barbebc@nu.com
CNG/Southern Mike Smalec 203-795-7748 msmalec@soconngas.com
203-339-0105 (cell)

Under the capital grant program, the electric cost associated with power used when base load customer-side generation is out of service can be reduced. This is done by eliminating backup rates and demand ratchets for customers who install these projects. In addition, generation that will be interconnected to the distribution system must comply with certain standards. Further, some projects are required to participate in the ISO-NE’s Demand Response Programs. Contact one of the following utility representatives for information on these subjects.

CL&P Bryan Barbera 860-665-6249 barbebc@nu.com
UI Rita King 203-499-2285 rita.king@uinet.com

Applications for conservation and load management projects are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and must be made through The Connecticut Light and Power Company or The United Illuminating Company’s energy efficiency programs. For more information on conservation and load management call: 1-877-WISE USE (1-877-947-3873) or you can go to www.ctenergyinfo.com/linkinfo.php?topic=hndwzppm#list3 or contact one of the following utility representatives.

UI: Pat McDonnell 203-499-2923 pat.mcdonnell@uinet.com
CL&P: Eve Sabino 860-832-4949 sabinoeb@nu.com

Generation projects with a capacity of greater than 1MW, and all fuel cell projects, require the approval of the Connecticut Siting Council. For specific information, contact one of the following Connecticut Siting Council representatives.

Derek Phelps 860-827-2935 derek.phelps@po.state.ct.us
Fred Cunliffe 860-827-2939 fred.cunliffe@po.state.ct.us

Generation projects may require permits from the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). For more information, contact the following DEP representative.

Rick Rodrigue (860) 424-3429 richard.rodrigue@ct.gov