The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), Connecticut Green Bank, and their partners recently marked the completion of engineering for the installation of a solar energy system at DVA's main campus and skilled nursing facility in Rocky Hill, Connecticut.

These projects will provide renewable power to the campus and reduce energy costs. The Connecticut Green Bank developed these projects through its Solar Market Assistance Program Plus (Solar MkAP+). Keyser Energy has partnered with the Connecticut Green Bank to become the long-term owner of these projects and nine additional projects, and will be responsible for operation and maintenance. Greenskies Clean Energy serves as the engineering, procurement, and construction contractor for both DVA installation projects.

Retired U.S. Army Brigadier General and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch stated: "To Governor Lamont and his administration, we thank you for your visionary foresight in the 'Greener Connecticut Government' initiative, which provides reliable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective energy for Connecticut residents and businesses. This is one of your many top priorities, enabling the thriving of Connecticut’s 3.6 million residents. The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs team appreciates your full support for this solar field project and all you’ve done through key partnerships to maintain and improve the environment and quality of life for Connecticut residents and broader communities."

The combined capacity of these two systems is 1.404 megawatts DC, with an estimated annual power generation of approximately 1.84 million kilowatt-hours. It is projected that these systems will offset 85% of the electricity consumption in skilled nursing facilities and 35% of the power usage in the main campus buildings.

Michelle Gillman, Specialist from the Administrative Services Department, stated, "This initiative brings together two key commitments: advancing the state government's sustainability efforts and supporting the people who serve our nation." "The Administrative Services Department is proud to support this project and the broader Green Government CT partnership."