Qcells and Hanwha Aerospace USA (HAU) have announced the completion of two solar and energy storage projects in Connecticut to help HAU meet its energy needs. Under a 20-year PPA, Qcells will supply HAU with nearly 20% of its energy needs. The projects are among the first to utilize Connecticut’s Energy Storage Solutions program and make HAU the first manufacturer to take advantage of the state’s storage incentives.
The nine-year Energy Storage Solutions program was launched in 2022 by Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) and is managed by Connecticut Green Bank, the nation’s first state-level green bank, along with Eversource and UI. Qcells’ two projects – located in Cheshire and Newington, Connecticut – total 1.7 MW of solar and 1.2 MWh of storage. Qcells is ultimately a one-stop shop for HAU, providing end-to-end service that includes the analysis, design, permitting, construction and operation of the customer’s energy consumption, all fully financed.
The state’s storage program is a key to bringing more reliable, affordable storage solutions to Connecticut. The program is intended to help all types of energy customers install clean storage solutions to increase reliability and reduce energy costs. Qcells’ system will contribute to the grid during critical periods and in return will be eligible for performance incentives. With Geli EMS software, Qcells optimizes battery charging and discharging to meet program requirements and maximize both operational and financial performance of the projects.
Qcells’ projects for HAU were also made possible by incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides a 30% tax credit for both storage and solar installations. These projects are a great example of how state and federal policies together can accelerate the clean energy transition, reduce energy costs, and increase grid reliability in a changing climate.
“Qcells’ solar and storage projects are an achievement for Connecticut manufacturing and for the ratepayers of Eversource and UI. Not only will Hanwha Aerospace USA enjoy electric bill savings and have backup power in the event of an outage, but Connecticut ratepayers will also see the benefits that come from reduced strain on the electrical grid,” said Sergio Carrillo, General Manager of incentive programs at the Green Bank. “Energy Storage Solutions customers will send power from their batteries to the grid during times of peak demand in summer and winter, which can help make the grid cleaner, cheaper and more reliable.”
News item from Qcells
