Manchester Tech School Solar Project Part Of 7-Site State Clean Energy Rollout

MANCHESTER, CT — A ribbon-cutting at Howell Cheney Technical High School marked one of seven solar energy projects at Connecticut technical high schools that are nearing final completion, according to the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System and the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services. The Manchester installation is a 756.8-kilowatt carport system serving Howell Cheney.

CTECS, DAS, the Connecticut Green Bank and Verogy announced the update May 1. The seven projects include rooftop and carport installations at technical high schools across the state and will collectively deliver almost 4 megawatts of renewable energy to the schools. According to the announcement, CTECS is expected to save about $5.4 million in energy costs over the lifetime of the panels while reducing carbon emissions by the equivalent of about 2,290 metric tons annually.

CTECS Executive Director Dr. Alice Pritchard said the work is also meant to support students. “Today’s ribbon cutting marks more than the completion of a project, it reflects a commitment to using our resources more efficiently to benefit students while also exposing them to emerging energy technologies,” said CTECS Executive Director Dr. Alice Pritchard. “We’re especially grateful to our project partners for their collaboration in bringing these projects to completion so quickly.”

DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman said the project reflects the state’s sustainability goals. “DAS is proud to be part of a project that reflects Connecticut’s strong commitment to sustainability," said DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman. "By expanding clean energy at CTECS campuses, we’re reducing costs, lowering emissions, and creating hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in a growing green economy.”

The Connecticut Green Bank said the projects were coordinated through multiple partners and tied to its Solar MAP+ program. “These projects are the result of significant coordination among CTECS, DAS, Verogy, and the Green Bank,” said Mackey Dykes, Executive Vice President of Financing Programs at the Connecticut Green Bank. “Using Solar MAP+, we have helped streamline the process of going solar for state and municipal properties and affordable multifamily housing. We are excited to see these CTECS projects start producing savings.”

The other schools listed in the announcement are W.F. Kaynor Technical High School in Waterbury, A.I. Prince Technical High School in Hartford, Eli Whitney Technical High School in Hamden, Emmett O’Brien Technical High School in Ansonia, Henry Abbott Technical High School in Danbury and H.H. Ellis Technical High School in Danielson. Verogy Chief Operating Officer Steve DeNino said the projects gave students “a firsthand look at where the solar industry is headed.”