The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund is offering a total of $4 million in loans for the demonstration of pre-commercial, clean-energy technologies in Connecticut.
Under the Operational Demonstration Program, loans of up to $500,000 will be awarded on a competitive basis over two years, with eligible projects including renewable electricity generation, energy efficiency for buildings, and hydrogen and biofuel production.
“Programs such as the Operational Demonstration Program are critical to accelerate the growth of the clean energy sector in Connecticut,” said Lise Dondy, president of the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund, in a prepared statement. “Commercial success of emerging technologies in this sector will not only bring competitive alternatives to fossil fuel based technologies but will also bring job creation to the state.”
Aquarion rates to rise by 10%
The Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control approved a 10.6 percent increase in water rates charged by Aquarion Water Co., short of the 24 percent hike sought by the Bridgeport-based utility.
Attorney General Richard Blumenthal stated he would file a request with DPUC to prevent the company from charging any increase.
“This huge hike is still too high, threatening consumers and businesses struggling to stay above water,” Blumenthal said, in a prepared statement. “Aquarion ”“ like its residential and commercial customers ”“ must do more with less.”
Wilton builder cited for ”˜green”™ house
The organizer of the Connecticut Zero Energy Challenge cited a New Canaan home constructed by Wilton-based BPC Green Builders L.L.C. as a top example of an energy-efficient home.
Run by the DPUC-sponsored Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund, the challenge is in its second year and is intended to showcase innovations in building techniques to benefit other builders and homeowners.
Among other features, the house includes a super-insulated envelope, triple-glazed windows and advanced framing techniques to better retain heat at corners. The house is powered by a 450-square-foot solar thermal system that produces 10.8 kW of power.
“This home demonstrates that energy efficiency isn”™t limited to a particular style, shape or look in a home,” said Chris Trolle, partner of BPC Green Builders, in a prepared statement. “Building a green house can provide high comfort levels and increased durability as well as lower operating costs.”
Homeowners improve energy efficiency
Some 600 Connecticut homes were “weatherized” in the second quarter using funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, in addition to 500 in the first quarter.
Nationally, ARRA funding has improved the energy efficiency of 200,000 homes owned by low-income families, with money being used to add insulation and replace windows and doors, among other improvements.
