New energy program helps businesses conserve, reduce costs

(March 31, 2006) Connecticut businesses can tap new resources to help them conserve energy and control rising costs. A new program of the state Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC) provides loans and grants to companies for installing their own electric generators or taking measures to conserve energy.

Created by the Energy Independence Act the legislature approved last year, the program focuses on encouraging distributed-generation (DG) and conservation investments in Connecticut. DG is generating capacity that is owned and operated by a commercial or industrial customer.

Electric distribution companies in the state will receive incentives to educate, assist and promote investments in customer-side distributed resources. As additional enticements, the DPUC program will make rate reductions available for participating natural gas and electricity customers.

Businesses to choose
Participating companies will get help in investing in equipment to generate electricity to cover their needs and save on energy costs. Removing the companies from the electricity grid will make more power available throughout the state.

Businesses may be eligible for multiple programs, including capital grants, low-interest loans, gas discounts, backup rates and renewable energy credits, according to their needs.

Connecticut’s high energy costs make it difficult for state companies to compete in the global marketplace. Last year, more than 3,000 small businesses and 1,000 midsize and large businesses in Connecticut used conservation programs to save money and operate more energy efficiently.

Help from CBIA
CBIA is helping companies learn about and access the new resources. For information on how to get involved, contact CBIA’s Rob Earley at 860-244-1900 or earleyr@cbia.com.