Case congratulates Goshen on Bright Ideas energy grant

HARTFORD – The town of Goshen was recognized for its energy efficiency today at the State Capitol, receiving $5,000 in state grant money and acknowledgment from its state legislator.

Energize Connecticut announced that Goshen, as a member of the Clean Energy Communities (CEC) program, would receive the funding for leadership in environmental stewardship and energy efficiency. Goshen joined 21 other state cities and towns in receiving $5,000 to $15,000 grants.

“My hat goes off to Bob Valentine and everybody in Goshen working hard to make sure they are being leaders in cost-saving and energy-saving methods. The town has already made significant strides with the Clean Energy Communities program and we can expect much of the same great work in upcoming years,” said state Rep. Jay Case (R-63).

Bright Idea Grants money is provided through the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF), under the Clean Energy Communities (CEC) program. Through this year, the 23 honored towns and cities saved more than 277 million kilowatt-hours through their energy efficiency efforts. According to Energize Connecticut, those savings are the equivalent to the amount of electricity 33,000 homes would typically consume in one year, and result in avoided emissions of approximately 152,500 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), which is the equivalent of taking 26,500 cars off the road for a year.

From January 2010 to December 2013, Goshen saved 312,737 kilowatt-hours and 153 tons of CO2 by completing energy-saving projects in Town Hall, the Fire Department and Goshen Center School. Nine percent of the community – or 107 homes – have participated in residential programs.