Connecticut Clean Energy Fund

CONNECTICUT CLEAN ENERGY FUND -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 26, 2008)

* Mr. COURTNEY. In December 2007, the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) Board announced a $1.18 million grant to the Lee Company's Westbrook production facility for the development of a solar photovoltaic system. On Friday, June 27, 2008 the Lee Company will celebrate the returns on these investments: Connecticut's largest solar photovoltaic system at a manufacturing facility. I rise today to recognize this monumental achievement and commend the Lee Company and the CCEF's leadership with facilitating a greener Connecticut for current and future generations.

* In 1948, the Lee Company was founded by Leighton Lee II in eastern Connecticut. Over the past six decades, the Lee Company has transformed the original Connecticut regional offices into a national presence. Today, the company remains one of the foremost developers and manufacturers of fluid control components for aerospace systems.

* The CCEF was established by Connecticut's General Assembly in 2000. Since inception, the CCEF, administered by Connecticut Innovations, has invested millions of dollars in renewable energy projects throughout Connecticut, focusing on solar, biomass, wind, hydro, and wave power. In my district alone, the Fund has provided nearly $14 million in incentive grants for 207 alternative energy projects. Current operating renewable energy projects are estimated to generate 5 million kWh and eliminate over 4.1 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions over the course of each year.

* As important as the state's help was in this project, it was the vision and determination of the Lee Company that really made the project's exciting transformation of its energy system possible. The CCEF's incentive grant to the Lee Company, which covered half the cost of the 308-kilowatt photovoltaic system at the Westbrook production facility, is one of the largest in the state of Connecticut. Once operating, the photovoltaic system will provide 19 percent of the energy used at the facility. When the system is not in use, energy production credits will be deducted from the company's electric bill.

* In addition to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, these investments will generate new economic growth and opportunity. The Lee Company employs more than 100 individuals at the Westbrook production facility and more than 800 people throughout the state. These investments will allow for the continued growth of the company and expanded employment opportunities throughout Connecticut.

* Madam Speaker, our Nation is at a critical turning point. For the strength of our economy and health of our environment, investments in clean, renewable energy are needed now more than ever. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in recognizing these renewable energy achievements and supporting similar initiatives in their districts.

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