Eastern Connecticut State University is broadening its commitment to sustainability by participating in Solarize U — a unique solar discount program that will make going solar easy and affordable for faculty, staff and families of students. Eastern will be the first of six universities in the state to bring this program on line.  Other Solarize U participants include UConn, Yale, Wesleyan, Southern Connecticut State University and the University of New Haven.

Solarize Eastern will officially kick off on Jan. 15, 2015, when Eastern holds its first workshop in the J. Eugene Smith Library’s Paul E. Johnson Sr. Conference Room from 3-4 p.m.  Faculty, staff and students’ families who are interested in learning more about Solarize Eastern are urged to attend. Interested homeowners must sign a contract by June 15 to participate.

Solarize Eastern increases residential solar through a proven formula.  Faculty, staff and students’ families will have the opportunity to compare online competitive bids from pre-screened installers for solar energy systems for their homes. Eastern is providing extensive outreach and education to create awareness and build interest among employees. “At Eastern, our commitment to sustainability extends from high performance buildings to academic offerings in sustainable energy studies to the practical application of smart energy solutions in Connecticut’s communities and schools,” said Eastern President Elsa Núñez. “Solarize U will broaden our impact by encouraging our faculty, staff and students to take sustainability home. We are pleased to partner with the Connecticut Green Bank and SmartPower on this exciting initiative.”

Solarize U is part of the Solarize Connecticut program, a partnership between the Connecticut Green Bank and SmartPower.  To date, Solarize Connecticut has added 14 megawatts of solar across Connecticut, with 1,800 residents signing contracts from 42 cities and towns.   For more information about Solarize Eastern, visit www.solarizeU.com eastern or contact Lynn Stoddard at (860) 465-2813 or stoddardl@easternct.edu.