IBEW Local 648 says data centers could bring 800-1,200 construction jobs, but researchers warn facilities are capital-intensive while creating few permanent positions despite massive tax breaks

2028 Democratic contenders who backed data centers with tax breaks are suddenly retreating amid growing voter revolt over electricity costs and community impacts

Student transportation provider Zum will deploy a fully electric school bus fleet for Branford Public Schools beginning in the 2026 27 school year, making Branford the largest fully electric school district with vehicle to grid (V2G) capabilities in the Northeast. The district is completing its transition to 100% electric buses three years ahead of its original schedule, with bidirectional V2G charging infrastructure that will allow buses to return stored energy to the local grid when not in service.

Connecticut's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) has recommended replacing the state's current residential, non residential, and shared clean energy tariff programs with a unified eight-year successor program running from 2028 to 2035. Key changes include reduced export compensation to encourage on-site energy use, a shift to a "first-ready" project selection process for non-residential projects, and continued incentives for low-income customers and energy storage.

The West Hartford Town Council voted 9 to 0 to approve a zoning change at 230 Newington Road, clearing the way for a 54 unit for-sale affordable housing development proposed by Honeycomb Real Estate Partners. The project calls for six two-story residential buildings on approximately 2.49 acres, with the zoning board still to take up the building permit application.

The Connecticut Green Bank has crossed a major milestone, surpassing $3.11 billion in cumulative investment in clean energy and environmental infrastructure since its founding in 2011, the first state level green bank in the nation. The total includes $463 million in public funds that have leveraged significant private capital, supporting nearly 30,000 green jobs and reducing energy costs for more than 71,000 families, businesses, and nonprofits across the state.

Manchester's Lynch Toyota has completed a 298.1 kW solar carport installation at its Tolland Turnpike dealership, financed through the Connecticut Green Bank's CPACE program and installed by Ellington based Earthlight Technologies. The project is projected to save more than $968,000 over its lifetime, and is part of the Green Bank's broader mission to reduce energy costs for Connecticut businesses.