Connecticut’s GreenerGov Awards Honor Sustainability and Cost-Saving Efforts
At the heart of Connecticut’s State Capitol, Governor Ned Lamont and key figures from various state agencies gathered to celebrate the annual GreenerGov Awards. This event spotlights state-driven projects aimed at minimizing environmental impact, cutting costs, and advancing climate objectives.
Initiated by Executive Order No. 1 in 2019 and expanded via Executive Order No. 21-3 in 2021, the GreenerGov initiative encourages state agencies to set a precedent. The focus is on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, conserving water, and integrating renewable energy and electric vehicles into government operations.
Governor Lamont remarked, “Since we launched GreenerGov in 2019, Connecticut state agencies have demonstrated that government can lead by example in reducing emissions, conserving resources, and lowering costs.” This year, state agencies have achieved a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from fiscal year 2024, culminating in a 36.3% decrease since 2019, surpassing the 2030 target ahead of time.
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), and the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) spearhead the GreenerGov initiative. Emma Cimino, acting commissioner of DEEP, highlighted the significance of these achievements, stating that the reductions are a result of “years of collaboration, innovation, and commitment from agencies across Connecticut.”
Efforts to advance sustainability included a partnership with the Connecticut Green Bank to explore solar development opportunities and improve the quality of sustainability data. Michelle Gilman, DAS commissioner, emphasized the importance of strategic investments and collaborations in achieving environmental and fiscal benefits.
Joshua Wojcik, OPM secretary, noted, “The success of GreenerGov is rooted in collaboration.” The initiative has not only reduced emissions but also generated substantial utility savings, demonstrating the impact of coordinated planning and strong partnerships.
The GreenerGov Awards recognize entities and individuals supporting the governor’s sustainability and cost-saving objectives. Evaluations are based on utility bill data from EnergyCAP and documented sustainability accomplishments from agency officers.
2026 GreenerGov Award Recipients
Sustainability Achievement Awards
Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Connecticut Department of Labor achieved a 21% emissions reduction by optimizing mechanical systems at its Wethersfield headquarters.
Waste Reduction: University of Connecticut piloted a composting program using Food Cycler appliances to encourage sustainable practices among students.
Electric Vehicles: Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles expanded its charging infrastructure with 11 new stations.
Expanding Solar Capacity: Connecticut Department of Correction added over two megawatts of solar capacity, leading to an estimated $11 million in savings.
Water Consumption Reduction: Connecticut Housing Finance Authority improved landscaping with drought-resistant plants to reduce water use and support pollinators.
Environmental and Fiscal Steward Award
Winner: Connecticut State Colleges and Universities installed three fuel cell systems, projecting $2 million in annual savings through power purchase agreements.
Eco Champion Award
Winner: Shelly Mondo from Connecticut Housing Finance Authority fostered a culture of sustainability with an employee engagement program.
Data Quality Recognition Awards
Special recognition was awarded to agencies such as the Connecticut State Library and the Department of Economic and Community Development for maintaining accurate utility data, aiding in sustainability progress assessment.
Connecticut’s commitment to sustainability is further emphasized by the GreenerGov initiative’s next goal: a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, focusing on clean energy investments and robust agency collaboration.
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Original Story at portal.ct.gov