STATE BUDGET:
Energy funds restored

(July 17, 2007) After identifying energy as a priority topic for this year’s session, lawmakers eventually approved a wide-ranging energy bill that addressed many of the concerns of the business community. The new state budget also includes some energy-related measures. It allocates $95 million to the state’s Energy Efficiency Fund and Clean Energy Fund.

In addition, $50 million in state bonding was authorized so Connecticut Innovations Inc. can provide grants to municipalities for renewable energy sources and cogeneration. Another $50 million in bonding was authorized so the Department of Public Utility Control can establish a grant program for small-scale generation projects in businesses and state buildings powered by renewable energy.