HAU Becomes First Manufacturer to Benefit from Connecticut’s Energy Storage Solutions Program
CHESHIRE, Conn. – May 14, 2024 – Qcells, a global leader in complete clean energy solutions, and Hanwha Aerospace USA (HAU), a leading aviation and aerospace component manufacturer, both subsidiaries of the Hanwha Group, today announced the completion of two solar and energy storage projects in Connecticut to help HAU meet its energy demands. Under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) Qcells will provide HAU with nearly 20% of its energy needs. The projects are among the first to utilize Connecticut’s Energy Storage Solutions program and make HAU the first manufacturer to benefit from the state storage incentives.
Launched in 2022 by Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), the nine-year Energy Storage Solutions program is managed by Connecticut Green Bank, the nation’s first state-level green bank, along with Eversource and UI. Qcells’ two projects – located in Cheshire and Newington, Connecticut – total 1.7 megawatts (MW) of solar and 1.2 megawatt-hours (MWh) of storage. Qcells ultimately is a one-stop shop for HAU, offering end-to-end service that covers customer power consumption pattern analysis, design, permitting, construction and operation, all fully financed.
During the life of the agreement, Qcells’ solar and storage systems could reap more than $2 million in utility bill savings. Beyond cost savings, in the long-term, Qcells’ projects are anticipated to avoid the release of more than 32,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent, which is equal to taking more than 7,000 gas-powered passenger vehicles off the road for a year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calculator. Qcells’ combined solar and battery storage also effectively supplies backup power for critical loads during outages.
The state’s storage program is a key to bringing more reliable, affordable storage solutions to Connecticut. The program is aimed at helping all types of energy customers install clean storage solutions to increase reliability and lower energy costs. Qcells’ system will contribute to the grid during critical periods and in return is eligible for performance incentives. With its Geli EMS software, Qcells optimizes battery charging and discharging to comply with program requirements and maximize both the operational and financial performance of the projects.
Qcells’ projects for HAU were also made possible by incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides a 30% tax credit for both storage and solar installations. These projects are a prime example of how state and federal policies together can accelerate the clean energy transition, lower energy costs and increase grid reliability in a changing climate.
“Qcells’ solar and storage projects are an achievement for Connecticut manufacturing and for Eversource and UI ratepayers. Not only will Hanwha Aerospace USA benefit from demand charge savings on their electric bills and have backup power in case of an outage, but Connecticut ratepayers will also see the benefits that come from reduced strain on the grid,” said Sergio Carrillo, Managing Director, Incentive Programs at the Green Bank. “Energy Storage Solutions customers will send power from their batteries to the grid during times of peak demand in the summer and winter, which can help make the grid cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable.”
“From the aerospace engines business to the steel industry, we are seeing more and more manufacturers begin to understand the wide-ranging benefits Qcells’ full suite of clean energy solutions provide,” said Jin Han, Corporate Officer, Head of Distributed Energy at Qcells. “Our end-to-end energy solutions will help companies like Hanwha Aerospace USA and communities across the country alike, achieve sustainability goals while also increasing grid reliability, resiliency and cost savings. Ultimately, we are proud to help power Hanwha Aerospace’s operations and to be an inaugural part of Connecticut’s Energy Storage Solutions program.”
“As we continue to add renewable energy supply to the Connecticut electric grid, energy storage will become increasingly important for maintaining reliability,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “The Energy Storage Solution program was designed to jump-start efforts to add this storage. These two Hanwha projects evidence the success of the program and the potential to offer grid reliability benefits along with cost savings and reliability services for Connecticut businesses.”
“Hanwha Aerospace has made a strong commitment to Connecticut, establishing its International Engines Business Headquarters in Cheshire and pledging to further strengthen its presence here. Today’s announcement is another example of how Hanwha is following through,” said Dan O’Keefe, Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development. “It is great to see an industry leader of Hanwha’s stature demonstrating leadership in terms of clean energy adoption in our state.”
“We see our 20-year agreement with Qcells as an incredible opportunity to make Hanwha Aerospace USA’s operations cleaner, more resilient and more affordable,” said Stephen Lindsey, Chief Technology Officer for Hanwha Aerospace USA. “We’re leading the way in our industry as we adopt clean energy solutions across our operations. HAU looks forward to the long-term benefits this agreement will yield both for our business and for the surrounding community as the projects provide us clean, resilient energy and contribute to a more sustainable and reliable power grid.”
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About Qcells
Qcells is one of the world’s leading clean energy companies, recognized for its established reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance, high-quality solar cells and modules, portfolio of intelligent storage systems, and growing international pipeline of large-scale renewable energy projects. Qcells also provides renewable electricity retail services and packages to end customers across the world. The company is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) with its diverse international manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Malaysia, and South Korea. Qcells offers Completely Clean Energy through the full spectrum of photovoltaic products, storage solutions, renewable electricity contracting and large-scale solar power plants. Through its growing global business network spanning North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and the Middle East, Qcells provides excellent services and long-term partnerships to its customers in the utility, commercial, governmental and residential markets. For more information, visit: https://qcells.com/us/.
About Hanwha Aerospace
Hanwha Aerospace is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in land combat vehicles, including the world-renowned K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer and the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle, weapons systems, munitions, aircraft engine parts, and technology products and services. As South Korea’s largest aerospace and defense company, Hanwha Aerospace is engaged in the research, development, and manufacture of advanced technology systems, products, and services, and is spearheading the country’s space projects. More information about Hanwha Aerospace is available at www.hanwhaaerospace.com.
Safe-Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Among other things, the quotations from management in this press release and Qcells’ operations and business outlook, contain forward-looking statements. Such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Qcells does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
The West Lane Inn Warms up to Sustainability
/in Building Solutions, C-PACE, Customer StoriesMystic Aquarium enhances its mission with green energy projects through the Connecticut Green Bank
/in Building Solutions, C-PACE, Customer StoriesConnecticut Green Bank’s flagship financing programs now include resilience improvements for homes and commercial properties
/in Building Solutions, Home Solutions, NewsSmart-E and C-PACE expand beyond energy efficiency and renewable energy to new climate adaptation and resilience measures, taking green bank model into environmental infrastructure
Hartford, CT (June 18, 2024) – The Connecticut Green Bank is pleased to announce that two of its flagship financing offerings for homes and commercial buildings are expanding to include projects related to climate adaptation, resiliency, and water infrastructure. These additions allow home- and building-owners to protect their properties against extreme weather events and potential losses from climate change. The new measures added to the Smart-E and C-PACE programs are among the first steps forward in the Green Bank’s environmental infrastructure scope expansion, which applies the green bank model of leveraging public capital to attract multiples of private investment.
“As we move into hurricane season, we are officially launching the new financing capabilities of Smart-E and C-PACE. Both programs have been serving the market for over a decade, successfully helping homeowners and businesses improve their energy efficiency and reduce energy burdens,” said Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “Now, thanks to the Governor’s leadership and the support of the legislature, we can mobilize private investment in environmental infrastructure and resiliency.”
For homeowners, the Smart-E loan can offer financing for more than 50 upgrades including insulation, windows, HVAC, solar, geothermal, and battery storage. The new resiliency-focused measures are focused on storm protection (such as high impact glass windows and storm shutters), flood proofing (including installing French drains, replacing impervious surfaces, elevating or relocated plumbing or HVAC equipment, and basement flood proofing), drinking water quality (replacing lead pipes; overdrilling, redrilling, relocating, or improving a well; connecting to public water; and repairing leaks), and planting of native or shade trees or removal of dead trees.
For non-residential properties, the C-PACE program will allow financing for projects that address the challenges caused by climate change that can have negative effects on buildings and properties. Reinforcing structures through resilient building practices can help businesses stay open and operational. Improvements related to flood management, storm events, wind, fire, sea level rise, and extreme heat can qualify. Also, projects that embrace nature-based solutions including natural infrastructure that promote stormwater management, healthy vegetation, soils, and aquatic ecosystems that offer flood control and hazard risk reduction can be financed. Projects designed to FORTIFIED, a standard created by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) can also access C-PACE financing.
“As the administrator of C-PACE in Connecticut, we are excited to expand the capacity of this successful program which has surpassed 400 closed projects and nearly $300 million in investment. The expansion creates new opportunities for both property owners to make improvements, and our capital provider partners who are currently able to offer this effective financing mechanism to address resilience projects,” said Mackey Dykes, Vice President of Financing Programs at the Green Bank.
By statutory definition, resilience means the ability to prepare for and adapt to changing conditions and withstand and recover rapidly from deliberate attacks, accidents or naturally occurring threats or incidents, including, but not limited to, the impacts of climate change.
The Green Bank is also a co-administrator of the Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA) program Energy Storage Solutions, which provides upfront and performance-based incentives designed to make the installation of battery energy storage systems more affordable for homeowners and businesses. When combined with solar photovoltaic systems, batteries can provide resilience when grid outages occur.
For a list of participating C-PACE capital providers, please click here.
To learn more about Green Bank climate resilience offerings, please click here.
Clean Energy Industry Report Highlights Significant Economic Contributions and Continued Employment Growth for Connecticut
/in NewsAlternative transportation sector shows strongest growth while workforce development challenges remain, according to state’s fourth Clean Energy Industry Report from the Joint Committee of the Energy Efficiency Board and the Connecticut Green Bank Board of Directors
Hartford, CT (June 6, 2024) – Connecticut’s clean energy industry in 2022 contributed $7.68 billion to the state’s Gross Regional Product (GRP), an 8.5 percent increase from the previous year, according to the recently released 2023 Connecticut Clean Energy Industry Report. The sector gained 2.9 percent more jobs and has surpassed 44,000 workers – more than pre-pandemic totals – accounting for nearly 5 percent of total statewide employment growth. This growth was stronger than Connecticut’s economywide average of 1.7 percent and on par with growth seen in Maine, New York, and Rhode Island.
This is the fourth industry study produced by the Connecticut Green Bank, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Eversource, and United Illuminating, Southern Connecticut Gas and Connecticut Natural Gas, subsidiaries of Avangrid Inc., operating through the Joint Committee of the Energy Efficiency Board (EEB).
“The Energy Efficiency Board believes that the continued economic growth from the state’s clean energy sector speaks volumes about Connecticut’s residents and businesses’ commitment towards achieving climate policy goals,” said Anthony Kosior, EEB Chair. “Their desire to invest in a more sustainable future is evident through the high demand for the Conservation and Load Management Programs, which has invested in education and development of Connecticut’s energy efficiency workforce. The EEB looks forward to the C&LM programs serving as an asset to further train and encourage diversification of this workforce to include more women and minorities.”
“We’re pleased to see Connecticut’s clean energy economy growing, particularly in energy efficiency, alternative transportation, and clean grid and storage employment,” said Eversource Director of Energy Efficiency Implementation and Connecticut Energy Efficiency Board member Ron Araujo. “Through technical assistance and incentives provided through participation in our programs, Eversource has worked with the state of Connecticut, business partners and our customers to help reduce its carbon footprint while strengthening the economy. As more of our customers become aware of the environmental and cost-saving benefits of energy efficiency technologies, these energy job markets will continue to flourish.”
“We are deeply encouraged and emboldened by the continued success of the energy efficiency economy right here in Connecticut,” said Hammad Chaudhry, Senior Manager of Conservation and Load Management at Avangrid and member of the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Board. “As part of a leading sustainable energy company with a global footprint, we are proud of our partnerships with an expanding clean energy workforce that is just as committed to a green and sustainable future as we are. We appreciate the dedication of the Green Bank and all the members of the Energy Efficiency Board as we commit to an equitable, innovative clean energy transition.”
“Connecticut’s clean energy economy continues to grow to address our climate challenges and our need for jobs that pay living wages. We have seen the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy for our families and businesses, especially in our vulnerable communities and understand the important role that this sector plays in our state’s overall economy,” said Connecticut Green Bank Board of Directors Chair Lonnie Reed. “We look forward to even stronger strategic alliances as we support the companies and workers in this industry and are eager to partner with legislators who share these important objectives.”
As with previous reports, this analysis from BW Research shows employment divided into five major technology sectors, their component sub-technologies, and industry or value chain segment. The five sectors are: energy efficiency; clean energy generation; alternative transportation; clean grid and storage; and clean fuels. All data presented is based on the 2023 United States Energy and Employment Report (USEER).
Some other key findings include:
“As an advocate for community and economic development, this report sheds light on the innovation happening in Connecticut. What this report also highlights is the work the industry needs to do, to promote workforce development opportunities that exist in the sector for black, brown, indigenous and women. I am excited about the possibilities for expanded collaboration and connecting the clean energy industry with workforce advocates”, said Brenda Watson, Executive Director at the North Hartford Partnership and Chair of Connecticut Green Bank and Energy Efficiency Board joint subcommittee.
To access the full report, please visit the Green Bank’s societal impact page or download directly here.
About Energize ConnecticutSM and the Joint Committee:
Energize CT is an initiative of the Energy Efficiency Fund, the Connecticut Green Bank, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), United Illuminating, Southern Connecticut Gas and Connecticut Natural Gas, subsidiaries of Avangrid Inc., and Eversource, with funding from a charge on customer energy bills. Learn more at www.energizect.com.
Joint Committee
Pursuant to Section 16-245m(d)(2) of the Connecticut General Statutes, the Joint Committee shall examine opportunities to coordinate programs and activities contained in the plan developed under Section 16-245n(c) (i.e., Comprehensive Plan of the Green Bank) with the programs and activities contained in the plan developed under Section 16-245m(d)(1) (i.e., Conservation and Load Management Plan), and to provide financing to increase the benefits of programs funded by the plan developed under Section 16-245m(d)(1) so as to reduce the long-term cost, environmental impacts, and security risks of energy in the state.
To support the Joint Committee, the following is a principal statement to guide its activities: The Energy Efficiency Board and the Connecticut Green Bank have a shared goal to implement state energy policy throughout all sectors and populations of Connecticut with continuous innovation towards greater leveraging of ratepayer funds and a uniformly positive customer experience.
Connecticut Green Bank Subsidiary’s Tenth Investment Offering for Citizens Surpasses Its Maximum Raise
/in Investment Solutions, NewsFeaturing an increased maximum raise limit, investment opportunity exceeds target, becomes eighth consecutive sell out
Hartford, CT (May 28, 2024) – CGB Green Liberty Notes LLC, a subsidiary of the Connecticut Green Bank, successfully closed their tenth Green Liberty offering, surpassing its maximum raise amount. To allow for more investors to participate in this innovative and certified green investment opportunity, this was the third offering that featured an increased maximum raise limit of $350,000. This is the eighth consecutive offering to exceed the maximum. In total, more than $2.3 million has been raised from Connecticut citizens and nationwide investors in support of small businesses improving their energy efficiency and reducing their energy costs. The campaign is made possible in partnership with Raise Green, an award-winning online marketplace for impact investing.
Green Liberty Notes, which are offered quarterly, can be purchased through an online platform without a broker, with a minimum investment of just $100. To date, more than 60% of original investments have been $1,000 or less, and more than half of the investors have been Connecticut residents. In total, individuals from 35 states have invested in Green Liberty Notes.
Investments in the Green Liberty offering support Eversource’s Small Business Energy Advantage (SBEA) program, which enables small businesses in Connecticut to reduce their energy costs through efficiency upgrades and zero-interest loans. The Connecticut Green Bank and Amalgamated Bank (America’s largest B Corp bank) recently celebrated the purchase of more than $100M of SBEA loans, driving environmental benefits and economic growth in local restaurants, town halls, community organizations, and more.
As a result of the climate benefits associated with the SBEA program, this Green Liberty offering has been reviewed and designated a Green Bond by Kestrel, a leading provider of external reviews for green, social and sustainability bond transactions and a Climate Bonds Initiative Approved Verifier.
For more information about investment opportunities, please visit invest.ctgreenbank.com.
Connecticut Green Bank Launches Turnkey Solar and Battery Storage Assistance for Affordable Multifamily Housing Owners
/in Building Owner, Building Solutions, NewsJoin the Connecticut Green Bank on June 6 for a webinar presentation on Solar MAP
Hartford, CT (May 20, 2024) – To help owners and residents of affordable multifamily housing in Connecticut have easier access to the benefits of solar energy and battery storage, the Connecticut Green Bank is proud to announce that their successful Solar Marketplace Assistance Program (Solar MAP) is now available to affordable properties with five or more units. This enhancement was enabled through passage of legislation in 2021, which expanded the definition of a residential customer as it relates to solar energy generation to include multifamily properties. Solar MAP for affordable multifamily properties will officially launch with an informational webinar presentation on Thursday, June 6 at 9 am.
Through Solar MAP, no-cost technical assistance is provided to affordable multifamily housing agencies, property managers, and owners to simplify and navigate the process of going solar (including battery storage) from start to finish. The program helps identify project sites, conduct feasibility and design solar installations. The Green Bank also provides the financing, incentives, and contractors to take projects from concept to completion.
Prior to 2021, affordable multifamily properties were defined as commercial properties, which compete for a capped incentive. Affordable multifamily properties can now access the Residential Renewable Energy Solutions program, which has no cap and will often provide benefits greater than the commercial incentive. The program also allows the tenants to share in the savings from the solar system. Solar MAP offers a lease arrangement to avoid complicated financing structures and easily share the benefits with property owners and tenants.
Affordable multifamily properties can also benefit from the Energy Storage Solutions program, which provides substantial incentives that help tenants become more resilient in the event of a grid outage.
The Connecticut Green Bank has been awarded Greenhouse Gas Reduction Funds from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that will be used to reduce the cost of capital for affordable multifamily housing projects – passing along meaningful benefits to tenants and property owners alike including more energy savings, increase in resilience from grid outages through storage, and more. Additionally, Green Bank has partnered with the Council of Governments and submitted an implementation application under the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. This grant funding, if awarded, will be utilized to help deploy solar energy and battery storage in vulnerable communities and address other barriers to solar projects, such as scenarios where new roofs or structural upgrades are required prior to installation, or where interconnection is cost prohibitive.
Since 2020, Solar MAP has supported solar project development at state and municipal properties, including the Towns of Manchester, Portland, Mansfield, and Branford. Future rounds of the program will support the state’s 10 megawatt per year solar goal and growing interest from all sectors in battery storage.
Anyone interested in learning about Solar MAP for affordable multifamily properties can register for the June 6 webinar at: https://www.ctgreenbank.com/events/solar-map-for-affordable-multifamily-housing/
Qcells Completes Two Solar and Storage Projects on Hanwha Aerospace USA Sites
/in Building Solutions, NewsHAU Becomes First Manufacturer to Benefit from Connecticut’s Energy Storage Solutions Program
CHESHIRE, Conn. – May 14, 2024 – Qcells, a global leader in complete clean energy solutions, and Hanwha Aerospace USA (HAU), a leading aviation and aerospace component manufacturer, both subsidiaries of the Hanwha Group, today announced the completion of two solar and energy storage projects in Connecticut to help HAU meet its energy demands. Under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) Qcells will provide HAU with nearly 20% of its energy needs. The projects are among the first to utilize Connecticut’s Energy Storage Solutions program and make HAU the first manufacturer to benefit from the state storage incentives.
Launched in 2022 by Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), the nine-year Energy Storage Solutions program is managed by Connecticut Green Bank, the nation’s first state-level green bank, along with Eversource and UI. Qcells’ two projects – located in Cheshire and Newington, Connecticut – total 1.7 megawatts (MW) of solar and 1.2 megawatt-hours (MWh) of storage. Qcells ultimately is a one-stop shop for HAU, offering end-to-end service that covers customer power consumption pattern analysis, design, permitting, construction and operation, all fully financed.
During the life of the agreement, Qcells’ solar and storage systems could reap more than $2 million in utility bill savings. Beyond cost savings, in the long-term, Qcells’ projects are anticipated to avoid the release of more than 32,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent, which is equal to taking more than 7,000 gas-powered passenger vehicles off the road for a year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calculator. Qcells’ combined solar and battery storage also effectively supplies backup power for critical loads during outages.
The state’s storage program is a key to bringing more reliable, affordable storage solutions to Connecticut. The program is aimed at helping all types of energy customers install clean storage solutions to increase reliability and lower energy costs. Qcells’ system will contribute to the grid during critical periods and in return is eligible for performance incentives. With its Geli EMS software, Qcells optimizes battery charging and discharging to comply with program requirements and maximize both the operational and financial performance of the projects.
Qcells’ projects for HAU were also made possible by incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides a 30% tax credit for both storage and solar installations. These projects are a prime example of how state and federal policies together can accelerate the clean energy transition, lower energy costs and increase grid reliability in a changing climate.
“Qcells’ solar and storage projects are an achievement for Connecticut manufacturing and for Eversource and UI ratepayers. Not only will Hanwha Aerospace USA benefit from demand charge savings on their electric bills and have backup power in case of an outage, but Connecticut ratepayers will also see the benefits that come from reduced strain on the grid,” said Sergio Carrillo, Managing Director, Incentive Programs at the Green Bank. “Energy Storage Solutions customers will send power from their batteries to the grid during times of peak demand in the summer and winter, which can help make the grid cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable.”
“From the aerospace engines business to the steel industry, we are seeing more and more manufacturers begin to understand the wide-ranging benefits Qcells’ full suite of clean energy solutions provide,” said Jin Han, Corporate Officer, Head of Distributed Energy at Qcells. “Our end-to-end energy solutions will help companies like Hanwha Aerospace USA and communities across the country alike, achieve sustainability goals while also increasing grid reliability, resiliency and cost savings. Ultimately, we are proud to help power Hanwha Aerospace’s operations and to be an inaugural part of Connecticut’s Energy Storage Solutions program.”
“As we continue to add renewable energy supply to the Connecticut electric grid, energy storage will become increasingly important for maintaining reliability,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “The Energy Storage Solution program was designed to jump-start efforts to add this storage. These two Hanwha projects evidence the success of the program and the potential to offer grid reliability benefits along with cost savings and reliability services for Connecticut businesses.”
“Hanwha Aerospace has made a strong commitment to Connecticut, establishing its International Engines Business Headquarters in Cheshire and pledging to further strengthen its presence here. Today’s announcement is another example of how Hanwha is following through,” said Dan O’Keefe, Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development. “It is great to see an industry leader of Hanwha’s stature demonstrating leadership in terms of clean energy adoption in our state.”
“We see our 20-year agreement with Qcells as an incredible opportunity to make Hanwha Aerospace USA’s operations cleaner, more resilient and more affordable,” said Stephen Lindsey, Chief Technology Officer for Hanwha Aerospace USA. “We’re leading the way in our industry as we adopt clean energy solutions across our operations. HAU looks forward to the long-term benefits this agreement will yield both for our business and for the surrounding community as the projects provide us clean, resilient energy and contribute to a more sustainable and reliable power grid.”
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About Qcells
Qcells is one of the world’s leading clean energy companies, recognized for its established reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance, high-quality solar cells and modules, portfolio of intelligent storage systems, and growing international pipeline of large-scale renewable energy projects. Qcells also provides renewable electricity retail services and packages to end customers across the world. The company is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) with its diverse international manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Malaysia, and South Korea. Qcells offers Completely Clean Energy through the full spectrum of photovoltaic products, storage solutions, renewable electricity contracting and large-scale solar power plants. Through its growing global business network spanning North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and the Middle East, Qcells provides excellent services and long-term partnerships to its customers in the utility, commercial, governmental and residential markets. For more information, visit: https://qcells.com/us/.
About Hanwha Aerospace
Hanwha Aerospace is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in land combat vehicles, including the world-renowned K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer and the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle, weapons systems, munitions, aircraft engine parts, and technology products and services. As South Korea’s largest aerospace and defense company, Hanwha Aerospace is engaged in the research, development, and manufacture of advanced technology systems, products, and services, and is spearheading the country’s space projects. More information about Hanwha Aerospace is available at www.hanwhaaerospace.com.
Safe-Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Among other things, the quotations from management in this press release and Qcells’ operations and business outlook, contain forward-looking statements. Such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Qcells does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Groton Public Schools Announces Solar Installations at Two Schools
/in Audience, Building Owner, Building Solutions, Municipality, News, Resources, SolarWorking with the Connecticut Green Bank, the systems at Groton Middle School and Mystic River Magnet School are projected to save the district more than $800,000 over the project term
Mystic River Magnet School
Groton, CT (May 6, 2024) – The Town of Groton Board of Education is proud to announce the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on two schools, Groton Middle School and Mystic River Magnet. These systems are estimated to save the district more than $40,000 annually in energy costs and more than $800,000 over the term of the power purchase agreements (PPA). The Connecticut Green Bank provided Groton Public Schools with guidance through its Solar Municipal Assistance Program (MAP), which simplified the process of going solar to allow the district access to the savings benefits with fewer challenges. Solar developer Verogy was responsible for the installation of the systems.
The system at Groton Middle School has 560 panels with a 230 kW capacity, and the Mystic River Magnet School has 256 panels with 100 kW capacity.
“During the planning and construction of the Groton 2020 initiative, which built our three new schools, the community expressed interest in green energy options,” said Susan Austin, Superintendent of Groton Public Schools. “We worked with Connecticut Green Bank and received the financing to install the solar panels at two of our new schools, at no cost to the community, which will provide significant savings.”
Groton Middle School
“We’ll continue to explore future opportunities for renewable and green energy. As part of the planned roofing project at Charles Barnum next year, the BOE is interested in looking at solar energy,” she added.
“Groton Middle School and Mystic River Magnet School were designed and built with infrastructure in place to support a plan to install Solar PV systems in the future. Working with the Green Bank over the last four years through their Solar Municipal Assistance Program and their partners, CSW Energy and Verogy, the district was able to execute that plan. Groton Public Schools is presently working with the Green Bank for solar installations on two other schools and looks forward to completing those projects,” said Rick Norris, Project Manager, Groton Public Schools.
Groton is the latest in a series of successful municipal installations completed using the Green Bank’s Solar MAP. Through this program, the Green Bank offers technical support to municipalities seeking assistance in developing solar PV projects on municipal buildings, such as town halls, emergency services buildings, schools, and more. The Green Bank also provides financing for the solar systems through a PPA, which allows the municipality to access solar with no upfront installation costs, no new debt to incur, and no operations and maintenance costs.
“We commend Groton Board of Education for their commitment to sustainability for their schools. We are proud to be their partner in clean energy and are excited for Groton to start benefiting from their new solar systems,” said Mackey Dykes, Vice President of Financing Programs at the Green Bank.
“We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to design and build projects at Groton Middle School and Mystic River Magnet,” said Will Herchel, CEO of Verogy. “These arrays not only reflect Groton’s commitment to sustainability, but also offer a real-world example of environmental stewardship for Groton students. By harnessing solar energy, Groton’s leaders are lighting the path to a greener tomorrow, empowering their community with clean, cost-effective renewable energy solutions.”
For more information on the program or to have someone contact you about participation, please visit ctgreenbank.com/solarmap/.
Governor Lamont, Congressional Delegation Announce Connecticut Selected To Receive $62.5 Million for Solar Projects Benefitting Low-Income Residents
/in News(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and the members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation today announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) with a $62.5 million grant under its Solar for All initiative.
This competitive grant program through the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is aimed at expanding solar energy investment in low-income and disadvantaged communities (LIDAC). The grant competition is funded by President Joe Biden’s Investing in America agenda as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
Connecticut’s grant application was led by DEEP in close collaboration with the Connecticut Green Bank, the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, the Connecticut Department of Housing, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, and others, making up the Connecticut Consortium. The consortium’s application is called, “Project SunBridge: Connecting Communities to a Solar Future.”
Project SunBridge will reach thousands of households, with a priority focus on multi-family affordable housing units. The project is designed to overcome current barriers for low-income and disadvantaged communities to access solar and storage energy technologies through a combination of financial and technical assistance.
Governor Lamont said, “This funding means more residents in Connecticut – and importantly, more low-income residents in our state – will be able to realize the benefits of clean, renewable energy and the savings associated with it. This funding provides for more equitable participation in the green economy and helps us make our grid cleaner and more reliable. Thank you to the Biden administration and the EPA for this Inflation Reduction Act funding, to our Congressional delegation for their efforts to pass the underlying legislation, and to DEEP for taking the lead along with fellow application partners to secure this funding for the residents of our state.”
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “This $62.5 million in federal funding will uplift communities, grow well-paying jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and expand Connecticut’s solar energy infrastructure.
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said, “Solar energy is a great way to lower energy costs and reduce pollution, but the upfront price makes it hard for many people to afford the switch. Project SunBridge will help ensure low-income communities aren’t excluded from the benefits of solar energy. This $62.5 million in federal funding will cut energy bills for thousands of families and help Connecticut get closer to our goal of a zero-carbon electric sector by 2040.”
Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said, “I worked with my colleagues on the House Ways and Means Committee and the entire Connecticut delegation to pass the largest investment in our nation’s history to combat climate change. This $62.5 million grant, funded by our efforts in Congress, will support the deployment of solar power to more than 12,000 households across the state, including in Hartford and Portland, a huge step toward decarbonizing our electric grid. Whether it be solar, wind, or hydrogen, I will continue to work to ensure our state remains at the forefront of America’s clean energy future.”
Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) said, “The Inflation Reduction Act is the largest investment in climate mitigation and clean energy in our nation’s history. Today, on Earth Day, Connecticut is once again reaping its rewards with $62.5 million coming to help increase access to solar energy technology across low-income communities. This is a strong step towards ensuring the benefits of clean energy is within reach for every resident.”
Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said, “I am proud to have helped secure these funds for the Solar for All initiative, which will lower energy costs and reduce pollution in vulnerable communities across our state. This Earth Day announcement will propel our work to combat climate change forward and expand renewable energy options to families looking to reduce not only their costs, but their ecological footprint as well.”
Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said, “Connecticut has long been on the cutting edge of innovation to curb the effects of climate change, and I’m thrilled to see this $62.5 million Solar for All grant for Project SunBridge help residents make the transition to clean energy. As the climate crisis continues to disproportionately affect low-income communities, this federal funding will expand access to solar energy for underserved neighborhoods along our coast – a crucial step toward reducing our carbon footprint.”
Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) said, “Investing in renewable energy is vitally important to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing the climate crisis. I am excited more funding from the Inflation Reduction Act is coming to Connecticut. Through Project SunBridge, DEEP will assist thousands of families access solar energy, with an emphasis on communities with the most need. I look forward to working with Governor Lamont, Commissioner Dykes, and the Connecticut Congressional delegation to continue delivering results for the people of Connecticut.”
DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said, “We are thrilled the EPA’s national competition recognized the effort and vision to expand the benefits of solar energy here in Connecticut. We have a tremendous opportunity to deliver the affordability and resiliency advantages of solar energy to homes and communities that deserve further investment. We look forward to working with our many partners to promote energy independence while delivering lower energy costs.”
PURA Chairman Marissa P. Gillett said, “Expanding community solar in our underserved municipalities will increase ratepayer access to the meaningful benefits of renewable energy sources, including reducing carbon emissions and energy bills, and improving grid resilience. PURA applauds the EPA for providing this essential funding that will build on Connecticut’s ongoing efforts to achieve an equitable modern grid for all ratepayers. PURA thanks DEEP for leading this solicitation and is excited to collaborate with our state partners to ensure these new solar projects are successfully deployed.”
Connecticut Green Bank President and CEO Bryan Garcia said, “Today’s announcement from the EPA recognizes Connecticut’s track record of leading the way on equitable deployment of solar PV and battery storage to share the benefits of the green economy. We look forward to collaborating with members of the Consortium to empower vulnerable communities. This new investment will unlock resources for underinvested families residing in affordable housing to help them realize a reduced energy cost burden.”
Connecticut Housing Finance Authority CEO Nandini Natarajan said, “I am honored for CHFA to be a part of an amazing partnership with our fellow agencies to bring critical federal resources to the state of Connecticut. The EPA’s award celebrates Connecticut’s unwavering dedication to making clean energy accessible to all. The Solar for All program offers an opportunity to reduce energy expenses, invest in the heath and sustainability of Connecticut’s affordable housing inventory, and empower our underserved communities. We are excited to collaborate with our partners to promote energy independence and advance our shared goals of building a more environmentally sustainable and equitable future.”
Through greater access to distributed solar and storage installations, Project SunBridge aims to achieve a minimum household energy savings of 20% for all participants, and will further help Connecticut’s goal of a zero-carbon electric sector by 2040, as established by Public Act 22-5.
These measures will supplement and enhance existing incentive programs in Connecticut such as the Residential Renewable Energy Solutions, Energy Storage Solutions, and Shared Clean Energy Facilities programs. The Connecticut Consortium, along with the electric distribution utilities, is already in the process of creating resources to streamline the customer eligibility verification process and to explain and promote what programs and incentives are available. The consortium seeks to implement Solar for All funds in a way that reaches every corner of Connecticut. Project SunBridge will conduct stakeholder outreach to identify barriers to distributed solar and storage deployment in LIDAC households and identify the most impactful use of funding.
April 2024 Newsletter
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