$1M grant from Connecticut Clean Energy Fund approved for solar PV installation

The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) Board has announced approval of a $1,180,000 grant to defray approximately half of the total cost of a 308-kilowatt DC solar photovoltaic (PV) system at The Lee Cos’s Westbrook production facility.

Upon completion, this system will be the largest solar photovoltaic system at a manufacturing facility in the state of Connecticut.

The Lee Co. (TLC) designs, develops and manufactures miniature precision fluid control components for aerospace systems, down-hole oil tools, machine tools, medical/scientific instrumentation and ink-jet printing.  CCEF’s funding will be granted through its On-Site Renewable Distributed Generation (DG) Program which provides financial support for installations of renewable energy at commercial, industrial and institutional buildings in Connecticut. 

“This is an exciting time for us. The Company is experiencing continued growth, and like everyone else, we are feeling the crunch from the recent rate hikes,” said Leighton Lee IV, facilities manager for The Lee Company.  “Thanks to the solar PV system we are installing, we are better positioned than ever to continue investing and growing right here in Connecticut.” 

TLC employs nearly 800 people in Connecticut, and more than 100 at this particular manufacturing plant in Westbrook.  The installation of the 308-kilowatt system will play a critical role in the company’s plans for new facilities and jobs in the area.

“Our goal with this PV system is to showcase the high-tech economy in Connecticut, while responding to the energy issue with environmental stewardship,” continued Lee.  “TLC is very excited about being able to source a good portion of our electricity internally using clean energy technology.”

The solar PV system, once installed, will supply about 19% of the total electrical needs for TLC’s  facility in Westbrook.  Additionally, during weekends and holidays, when the plant is closed and electrical demand is greatly reduced, the electricity produced by the solar panels can be credited against the company’s electric bill. 

“This project is a great example of how public and private partnerships can help us meet our goal of using clean, renewable energy sources to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels,” Governor M. Jodi Rell said.  “I applaud The Lee Company for contributing to a healthier environment and for helping Connecticut to achieve energy independence.” 

“This solar installation will provide an excellent ‘net metering’ opportunity for The Lee Company,” said Lise Dondy, president of CCEF.  “The company should enjoy important cost savings on its monthly electric bill as it feeds solar energy into the grid.  Additionally, the installation will benefit the citizens of Connecticut by contributing to a cleaner, healthier, more energy-independent future.”

To get this project off the ground and onto the roof, TLC will utilize the services of Gloria Spire Solar LLC, one of the most experienced solar PV design and installation companies operating in Connecticut.  

Mr. Mark Goodreau, CEO of Gloria Spire Solar LLC, said,  “Solar is an attractive option for progressive companies looking to save money on electricity bills while demonstrating support for clean renewable energy.  We are excited to be working with The Lee Company on this important project, and appreciate the support of CCEF to help make these large solar installations a practical choice.”