UI Honored as ‘Business of the Year’ for 125-Year Anniversary, Community Advocacy, and Economic Development

The Orange Chamber of Commerce recognizes the company’s longstanding partnership, commitment to customers, businesses, and community organizations


ORANGE, Conn. — September 25, 2024 — Today, United Illuminating (UI), a subsidiary of Avangrid (NYSE: AGR), announced that the company received the prestigious ‘Business of the Year’ award from the Orange Chamber of Commerce during their community awards and annual meeting this past week. This accolade celebrates UI’s 125-year anniversary, commitment to community advocacy, and contributions to the region’s economic growth. For several decades, UI and its employees have been dedicated partners of the Chamber, serving on the Board of Directors, sponsoring community events, supporting workforce development, and providing resources to aid local businesses and entrepreneurs.

“This prestigious award highlights the innovative strides Avangrid and our sister company, United Illuminating, are making in the community," said Pedro Azagra, Avangrid CEO. "With Avangrid headquarters proudly located in the town of Orange and employing hundreds of employees, our efforts in job creation and economic success are benefiting businesses and families alike. This recognition reflects the unwavering commitment of our leadership and employees to partner with local businesses and customers. We are dedicated to providing the most reliable and efficient service, thanks to our exceptional customer service team and the frontline workers who ensure safe and dependable electricity for homes and businesses.”

“It is an honor to be recognized by the Orange Chamber of Commerce for our commitment to the community, our customers, and local businesses we serve,” said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of UI. “Many of our employees live and work in the Orange area with their families. We aim to support their lives outside of work by partnering with the Chamber to foster the region’s economic development, bringing new restaurants, apartments, and shopping centers to promote economic success. We also ensure these developments receive safe and reliable service through our organization. We are proud of the partnership and relationship we’ve built with the Chamber and look forward to continuing to strengthen our connection with local business owners, foster collaboration, and provide the resources and tools they need to succeed.”

UI has been the electric utility provider for the Orange community since 1899, supplying, maintaining, and upgrading the essential electrical infrastructure needed to efficiently operate homes, businesses, and offices. Over the past several decades, UI has invested in upgrading electrical infrastructure across its service territories to meet the growing demand for electric services, which are vital to economic growth and social development. Most recently, the company has implemented technological advancements to improve customer service, such as automating billing, introducing wallet payment methods, and enhancing the move-in and move-out processes for electric service. Additionally, UI has engaged in outreach initiatives, sponsoring community events, hosting tabling opportunities, and organizing customer service events to build relationships with customers and businesses. These efforts provide tools and resources for participating in billing assistance programs and energy efficiency upgrades, promoting sustainability and lowering monthly bills.

In 2012, UI moved its headquarters to Orange from New Haven, bringing over 1,400 employees to the town. The companies serve as the city’s largest taxpayer and employer. Since relocating, UI and their employees have been active members of the Orange Chamber of Commerce, participating in educational programs, community outreach events, building business relationships, and engaging in professional development opportunities. In 2017, Avangrid employee Ted Novicki, Director of Regulatory Affairs in Connecticut, joined the Board of Directors and has served as President since 2019.

“I have always been deeply invested in the economic vitality of the Orange community,” said Ted Novicki, Avangrid Director of Regulatory Affairs in Connecticut and President of the Orange Chamber of Commerce. “My father grew up here, he raised my siblings and me here, and I’ve had the privilege of raising my son in this community. I decided to get involved with the Orange Chamber of Commerce to give back to the community that brought my family and me so much joy and opportunity. Serving as President of the Board of Directors for the past five years has been a privilege. We’ve accomplished many great things together, and I’m excited for the years ahead as we strengthen our business community, provide insights and strategies for regional improvement, and continue to make a lasting impact.”

The Orange Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based, not-for-profit 501©(6) organization that promotes and fosters economic growth throughout the Orange region. It invests in community programs, advocacy work, business networking opportunities, and professional development. The Chamber provides its members with opportunities to establish strong partnerships and collaborate closely with government officials and other key stakeholders. It plays an important role in creating a region where businesses and families can work, live, and thrive.

"UI and Avangrid have been essential to the Chamber’s continued success," said Barry Lee Cohen, Executive Director of the Orange Chamber of Commerce. "UI’s commitment to the Chamber and the Amity region’s businesses has significantly contributed to economic stability, enabling the Chamber to create value for our growing membership and the Orange community. UI’s support goes beyond being a Chamber Corporate Partner and sponsoring various programs. As a former elected official and global director for an advanced technology company that had operations in Orange for over four decades, I have witnessed firsthand UI’s reinvestment in the community. This includes supporting diverse charities, college internship programs, and assisting senior citizens, veterans, and others with their utility concerns." 

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