FuelCell Energy Inc., a manufacturer of efficient ultra-clean power plants for utility companies, has received a $4 million loan from the state Department of Economic and Community Development and the Connecticut Development Authority. The loan is part of the company’s $10 million project to expand FuelCell Energy’s Torrington manufacturing facility, expand its labor force and extend its lease through 2015.
“This project is right for Connecticut, right for our economy and right for our energy needs,” said Gov. Jodi Rell in a prepared statement. “We will be adding 100 jobs to our economy, bolstering a Connecticut company that is making strides to decrease our dependence on foreign fossil fuels and enhancing our position in an important industry. Connecticut is a pioneer in fuel cell technology and this project will help ensure we continue to be a leading innovator in this high-tech sector.”
The loan is for machinery and equipment, building improvements and information technology is part of Rell’s initiative calling for 20 percent of all energy used and sold in the state to come from clean or renewable resources by 2020.
“Companies like FuelCell Energy help us achieve this goal,” said Rell.
Direct FuelCell power plants generate power electrochemically, rather than through combustion, and generate near-zero nitrous oxides, sulfur oxides and particulate emissions. According to FuelCell Energy, these advantages add up to efficiency that bests fossil fuel-produced energy. “We thank Gov. Rell, the State of Connecticut, the Department of Economic and Community Development and the Connecticut Development Authority for their support,” said R. Daniel Brdar, Chairman and CEO of FuelCell Energy in a prepared statement. “Our fuel cells, which are highly efficient, operate 24/7 and produce near-zero pollutants and low CO2, can help the state reach its clean and renewable goals for power generation.”
