Connecticut Clean Energy Guide
Connecticut is pioneering clean energy financing through its Green Bank while pursuing aggressive offshore wind development. The state has committed to 100% zero-carbon electricity by 2040, making it a leader in the Northeast clean energy transition.
Source: American Clean Power Association
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Grid Operator: ISO-NE
Connecticut operates within ISO New England (ISO-NE), the regional grid operator coordinating electricity markets and transmission across the six New England states.
Learn more about ISO-NEThe Connecticut Green Bank
Connecticut pioneered the green bank model in 2011, creating the nation's first state green bank. The Connecticut Green Bank uses limited public dollars to attract private investment in clean energy, leveraging ratepayer funds to provide low-cost financing for solar, efficiency, and other clean energy projects.
The Green Bank has deployed billions in clean energy investment through programs including residential solar financing, commercial building efficiency, and multifamily housing improvements. Its model has been replicated in other states and internationally.
Offshore Wind Development
Connecticut is a key participant in the regional offshore wind buildout. The state has contracted for offshore wind capacity to meet its clean energy goals and is investing in port infrastructure to support the industry.
Major Projects
- Revolution Wind: 304 MW contract, joint project with Rhode Island
- Park City Wind: Large-scale project contracted by Connecticut utilities
- State Pier (New London): Major offshore wind staging and assembly facility
Solar Programs
Connecticut has built significant solar capacity through a combination of incentive programs and policy mandates. The Residential Solar Investment Program (RSIP) has driven rooftop adoption, while LREC and ZREC programs support larger commercial and industrial installations.
Community Solar
Connecticut's Shared Clean Energy Facilities (SCEF) program enables community solar development, allowing residents and businesses to subscribe to solar projects and receive credits on their utility bills. The program prioritizes access for low-to-moderate income customers.
Key Developers Active in Connecticut
- Ørsted/Eversource: Revolution Wind joint venture partners
- Avangrid: Park City Wind developer
- Eversource: Major utility supporting offshore wind
- Sunnova: Residential solar provider
- Greenskies Clean Energy: Commercial solar developer
Challenges & Outlook
Connecticut faces challenges including high electricity costs, limited land area for utility-scale solar, and the need to upgrade transmission for offshore wind integration. The offshore wind industry has experienced cost pressures requiring contract renegotiations.
Despite these challenges, Connecticut's innovative financing through the Green Bank, strong policy framework, and offshore wind investments position it well to achieve its 100% zero-carbon electricity goal by 2040.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Connecticut's clean energy goals?
Connecticut aims to achieve 100% zero-carbon electricity by 2040 and economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050. The state has interim targets including 40% renewable energy by 2030 and is investing heavily in offshore wind and solar.
How is offshore wind developing in Connecticut?
Connecticut has contracted for significant offshore wind capacity, including projects like Revolution Wind (304 MW) and Park City Wind. The state is developing port infrastructure at Bridgeport and New London to support the offshore wind supply chain.
What solar programs exist in Connecticut?
Connecticut offers the Residential Solar Investment Program (RSIP), commercial LREC/ZREC programs, and virtual net metering for community solar. The state has set goals for distributed solar deployment and provides various incentives and financing options.
How does the Green Bank work?
The Connecticut Green Bank, the nation's first state green bank, uses public dollars to leverage private investment in clean energy. It provides financing for residential solar, commercial efficiency, and other clean energy projects through innovative financing structures.