CURE Innovation Commons to Save Energy Costs Through C-PACE Program

Groton, CT – Using the Connecticut Green Bank’s innovative Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program, CURE Innovation Commons (“The Commons”) has financed energy improvements that will save the laboratory incubator more than $1.7 million in energy costs over the 17-year life of the loan term.

The project at The Commons is a perfect example of how support from Connecticut Green Bank can advance green energy goals and expand our economy by investing in the jobs and technologies of the future.

“This green energy project is very important to us from a bottom line perspective, because of the long-term cost savings, but it is also vital in terms of our role in the community,” said Susan Froshauer PhD, President and CEO of CURE. “We are in the business of science and research, and we strive to lead by example when it comes to using the latest technology to improve the quality of life for those who work at our facilities and our neighbors in Groton.”

The Commons is one of Connecticut’s newest science and technology incubators for entrepreneurs, professionals, scientists, start-ups and growing companies to develop ideas and build businesses in a collaborative community setting. In addition to funds provided for renovations by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), The Commons used C-PACE to fund energy efficiency upgrades including the installation of new HVAC equipment and a high efficiency generator.

“We are committed to making green energy accessible to businesses throughout the state,” said Mackey Dykes, vice president of commercial, industrial and institutional programs at Connecticut Green Bank. “C-PACE allows nonprofit, commercial and industrial property owners to access financing for green energy projects and to pay off projects through a property assessment. Financial innovations like these make projects possible at properties like The Commons, where new ideas and innovations in science and technology are being incubated – creating an opportunity for new jobs and economic growth in the community.”

Since its creation in 2011, the Connecticut Green Bank has deployed more than $1 billion in capital to fund green energy projects in Connecticut. This investment helps Connecticut create jobs, meet carbon reduction goals and improve the state’s energy security.