UI, SCG, and CNG Support Over 70 Nonprofits With Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Initiatives Through Statewide Credit Program
Funding through Connecticut’s Neighborhood Assistance Act helps reduce energy costs and advance clean energy goals for community organizations.
Photos from the event available HERE
ORANGE, Conn. — January 7, 2025 — United Illuminating (UI), Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), and Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc., have awarded funding to more than 70 nonprofit organizations through Connecticut’s Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA) Tax Credit Program. These funds support energy efficiency projects and facility upgrades that enhance sustainability reduce energy costs, and lower carbon footprints. Since 2004, the companies have contributed to the NAA program, administered by the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS), helping community organizations achieve energy savings and advance clean energy initiatives throughout the state.
“We are proud to support local nonprofits—such as civic associations, community centers, libraries, and affordable housing organizations—by funding energy efficiency upgrades that reduce costs and advance Connecticut’s clean energy goals,” said Frank Reynolds, President & CEO of UI, SCG, and CNG. “This program enables these organizations to focus on their vital work while benefiting from reduced energy usage and costs, contributing to a more sustainable future. We look forward to strengthening these partnerships and identifying new opportunities to collaborate with organizations committed to driving energy efficiency across our communities.”
UI, SCG, and CNG distributed funding to organizations within their service areas supporting projects such as window, boiler, and chiller replacements, lighting improvements, and weatherization upgrades. These projects benefit a range of organizations including educational centers, community theaters, food pantries, and affordable housing initiatives.
UI funded 26 organizations, including the Beardsley Zoo’s Smart Flower Solar Power project in Bridgeport and energy upgrades for the Connecticut Association for Performing Arts at the Shubert Theatre in New Haven. UI also provided funding to the Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen (DESK) for solar panels and other capital improvements.
"We are deeply grateful for UI's generous support and continued partnership," said Steve Werlin, Executive Director of Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen (DESK)."The funding enabled us to install crucial infrastructure for rooftop solar panels, reducing our energy costs and allowing us to reinvest those savings into our community. This project not only supports our clients but also contributes to Connecticut’s clean energy goals and promotes sustainability."
SCG’s contribution benefited 22 organizations, including upgrades at the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club locations in Fairfield and Bridgeport. SCG also allocated funds to the Sterling House Community Center in Stratford and lighting upgrades at Gateway Community College.
“Southern Connecticut Gas’s support for Wakeman Boys & Girls Club’s Southport Clubhouse Neighborhood Assistance Act project has enabled the organization to remain committed to environmental sustainability, reduce energy bills, and lower maintenance costs through its participation in Energize CT, facilitated by Earthlight,” said Sabrina Smeltz, CEO of Wakeman Boys & Girls Club. “These savings help Wakeman Boys & Girls Club keep program fees affordable, ensuring its services remain accessible to all members of the community.”
CNG supported 30 projects, including energy conservation efforts at Chrysalis Center facilities in Hartford and West Hartford, and LED lighting retrofits at the Connecticut Science Center.
By enabling nonprofits to adopt sustainable energy solutions, the NAA program continues to strengthen their capacity to serve Connecticut residents, supporting a future of greater environmental and economic sustainability.