The town of Chester has joined two Connecticut energy challenges, one to install solar systems and the other to reduce consumption.
Chester joined the CT Solar Challenge to promote the adoption of solar energy in the town through cost reductions and volunteer outreach. Participants in the solar challenge receive a 35 percent upfront rebate from the state and a 30 percent federal tax credit.
The town also joined the Clean Energy Communities Pledge, an Energize Connecticut initiative to encourage energy efficiency. Chester pledges to reduce municipal building energy consumption 20 percent by 2018 and buy 20 percent of its municipal electric needs from renewables by 2018.
For Chester residents who sign up to receive a home energy audit, $25 will be donated to the Chester Fuel Bank for seasonal energy assistance.
For its participation in these challenges, Chester earns points for renewable energy installations and energy efficiency programs from the Clean Energy Finance & Investment Authority. The town already earned a four-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system for Chester Elementary School and a $5,000 grant for a community energy efficiency project.