A brand-new 218-kilowatt solar photovoltaic array is now supplying power to Easterseals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut's facility in Deerfield. The project includes solar and lighting upgrades, funded through the Green Horizon Commercial Real Estate Clean Energy (C-PACE) program. The system was installed by Facility Solutions Group based in Oxford, Connecticut.

"We are deeply grateful for the collaboration with Connecticut Green Bank, which has enabled us to upgrade our facilities, install solar power and smart lighting, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability," said Robin Sharp, President and CEO of Easter Seals Capital Region and Eastern Connecticut. "What's even better is that the savings and revenue generated from these improvements will be directly reinvested into community services, allowing us to further fulfill our mission."

The energy upgrade project secured approximately $714,000 in C-PACE financing. Additionally, Easter Seals utilized the direct pay option for the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) under the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), a provision of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) that allows tax-exempt entities to access expanded clean energy technology tax credits. This provision makes it easier for non-taxpaying organizations like Easter Seals to access C-PACE and solar energy.