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The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and the Massachusetts Technology Transfer Center (MTTC) today announced that three clean energy researchers were awarded $40,000 in grants each through MassCEC’s Catalyst Program, which is aimed at commercializing game-changing clean energy technologies being developed in Massachusetts.

“Massachusetts’ outstanding academic and research institutions – and the innovations they produce - are integral to the growth of our clean energy sector and these investments give researchers a leg up toward commercialization,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr., who chairs the MassCEC board of directors. “Our clean energy economy is growing in Massachusetts thanks to these types of partnerships between government, academia and the private sector. I’m looking forward to seeing the results of these projects.”

MassCEC’s Catalyst Program, which is funded by MassCEC and managed by MTTC, launched its fifth solicitation for applications today. The program is now accepting applications for grants of up to $40,000 to help demonstrate the commercial viability of clean energy technologies. The program is now open to early-stage companies and research institutions located in Massachusetts.

“I’m thrilled to see another group of passionate technologists come through MassCEC’s Catalyst program, which has proven success in propelling clean energy technologies from the research lab to the commercial marketplace,” said MassCEC Chief Executive Officer Patrick Cloney. “By opening the program up to early-stage companies as well as researchers, we will have the ability to further the development of more clean energy technologies in the Commonwealth.”

“This awards program has been critical to researchers trying to move their technologies from initial discovery to prototype demonstration,” said Abi Barrow, Founding Director of MTTC which manages MassCEC’s Catalyst Program.  “It really helps them show the commercial viability of the invention”

Recipients must use the funding for projects that move their technologies towards commercialization. This includes gathering initial data to demonstrate proof of concept, how the technology compares to existing technologies and competitive advantages of the technology, or to develop a prototype for the technology. The goal of MassCEC’s Catalyst Program is to help technologies progress along the development curve to a point where additional commercialization funding can be obtained.

“MassCEC’s Catalyst Program provided a springboard that elevated the visibility of Dr.Bart Lipkens’ and Western New England University's novel acoustic filtration and separation technology, and helped in the creation of FloDesign Sonics Inc,” said FloDesign Sonics Inc. CEO Louis Masi. “The funding allowed us to hire three paid students and one additional full-time mechanical engineer, and the company continues to grow in Western Massachusetts.”

The following researchers will receive $40,000:

Vijaya Chalivendra, Ph.D., “Greener High Strength, Lightweight and Low Cost Structural Composites using Sustainable Natural Fibers”
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth’s Department of Mechanical Engineering
Chalivendra will use MassCEC Catalyst Program funding to fabricate light-weight, sustainable, energy efficient and natural jute fiber reinforced through thickness laminated composites. Researchers will then investigate the mechanical and fracture performance such as crack initiation of these novel composites. These fibers can decrease the weight of vehicles and thus decrease fuel consumption.

Matthew J. Panzer, Ph.D., “Ionogel Electrolytes for the Next Generation of Energy Storage”
Tufts University’s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering
Panzer will use the MassCEC Catalyst Program funding to build an ionogel-based supercapacitor device prototype and to assess its energy storage and delivery capabilities. Ionic liquids offer many advantages for its use in energy storage devices such as batteries and supercapacitors, including safer operation due to their non-volatility as well as larger operating voltages. Tufts researchers have developed a method of creating a solid ionic liquid-containing (ionogel) electrolyte that possesses characteristics similar to those of the ionic liquid, but in a solid form that will not leak or spill. This ionogel could be the basis for a high-power supercapacitor inside an electric vehicle, providing burst power for acceleration and quick charging for a kinetic energy recovery system upon braking.

Carolyn W.T. Lee-Parsons, Ph.D., “Engineering Increased Biodiesel Productivity from Microalgae”
Northeastern University’s Department of Chemical Engineering/Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Researchers plan to use the funding to improve the economics of biodiesel production through cultivation of microalgae engineered with increased oil biosynthesis. The MassCEC Catalyst Program funding will allow researchers to apply the combined technologies of genetic engineering and bioanalysis to identify and manipulate biological targets to increase the production rate of biofuels from microalgae. 

To be eligible for an award an applicant must be a principal investigator, or an early stage company. Researchers applying must disclose their technology and their host institution, which must be located in Massachusetts. Early stage companies are defined as companies that have raised less than $200,000 in equity financings (grants can be unlimited), have four or fewer employees and have been incorporated for less than 18 months at the time of the application submission.

The first deadline for applicants is March 14, 2012. Application directions are available at: http://www.mattcenter.org/events/grants-home.html.

For more information, contact Michele Bernier at the MTTC at mbernier@umassp.edu or (774) 455-7278.
 

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and the New England Clean Energy Council (Council) today announced the launch of the 2012 Massachusetts Clean Energy Internship Program, which connect students throughout the Commonwealth to paid internships at Massachusetts-based clean energy companies.

“I am pleased to announce the second year of an exciting program that will help develop a generation of passionate leaders who will contribute to the Commonwealth’s clean energy industry and further the Patrick-Murray Administration’s goals for an energy efficient future,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr., who chairs the MassCEC board of directors.

Last year the Massachusetts Clean Energy Internship Program facilitated the placement of more than 117 students and recent graduates in summer internships at 70 clean energy companies across the state. As a result of the internship program, 20 students gained full time and part time employment, and more than 70 students are being considered for future employment. This program continues MassCEC’s commitment to supporting education and training opportunities that align with the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals and industry growth, while furthering the career goals of those considering career opportunities in clean energy.

Massachusetts-based clean energy companies that are looking to hire summer interns will be eligible for two interns, and receive internship stipends of up to $12 per hour, or a total of $4,800 for up to ten weeks for each intern. In addition to compensation, interns will gain meaningful employment experience such as networking opportunities, mentoring, and industry knowledge only gained from working within clean energy companies.

“This program helps local clean energy companies foster the Commonwealth’s dedicated workforce and student population,” said MassCEC Chief Executive Officer Patrick Cloney. “This program will help clean energy companies take advantage of that asset and enhance their talent pipleline, while training the next generation to be part of our clean energy future.”

“From brand new startups to established industry leaders, Massachusetts clean energy companies can offer students a wide variety of professional experiences,” said NECEC President Peter Rothstein. “This program will help prepare the next generation of clean energy leaders and continue to accelerate the Commonwealth’s clean energy economy”

Starting today, students will be able to post resumes and cover letters at ma.cleanenergyeducation.org. Clean energy companies will review applications in which they are interested and that meet the company’s internship needs. Companies will contact applicants directly for interviews.  There is no deadline for applications, but students are strongly encouraged to submit resumes and cover letters as soon as possible. Stipends will be committed to eligible clean energy companies on a first come-first serve basis as summer internship offers are made to suitable candidates.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) today announced that the Commonwealth Organics-to-Energy program began accepting applications for construction projects and pilot projects that employ anaerobic digestion and other technologies that convert source-separated organic wastes into electricity or thermal energy.

“These unique investments in clean energy are part of a larger menu of projects designed to stabilize energy costs, cut greenhouse gasses and protect the environment, we urge public and private organizations to take advantage of this important program,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr.

“This program will continue our effort to generate more megawatts of clean, renewable energy in the Commonwealth, while educating communities and businesses about the benefits of organics-to-energy technologies,” said MassCEC Chief Executive Officer Patrick Cloney.

Commonwealth Organics-to-Energy offers a variety of funding opportunities aimed at helping the state divert source-separated organic wastes from disposal and into the generation of electricity or thermal energy. The grant opportunities announced today will allow private or public sector entities develop facilities that convert their organic wastes to energy while increasing awareness of organics-to-energy systems in the Commonwealth.  The program currently offers grants to public entities to assist in the planning for and review of organics-to-energy projects.

Commonwealth Organics-to-Energy targets technologies that convert organic materials such as pre- or post-consumer food waste, yard waste, and cow manure into electricity or useful heat by means other than direct combustion.  A prime example of an organics-to-energy technology is anaerobic digestion, in which microorganisms break down organic material in the absence of oxygen to produce biogas. The biogas, which contains a high percentage of methane, can then be used to generate heat or electricity. Depending on the type of system, additional useful outputs may be produced, such as liquid fertilizer or compost.  Beyond the diversion of organic waste from landfills or incinerators and the generation of renewable energy, the benefits of organics-to-energy facilities can include reduced water pollution, reduced burden on sewage treatment plants, reduced odors, displacement of fossil fuels, and manufacture of materials that can be improve soil health or productivity.

Commonwealth Organics-to-Energy supports the state’s effort to divert at least 35 percent of food waste from disposal by 2020, which would result in more than 350,000 tons of materials per year diverted from targeted businesses and institutional sectors, such as food processors, large institutions, hotels and convention centers.

For more information about opportunities through Commonwealth Organics-to-Energy visit: www.MassCEC.com/technology/organics-to-energy

MassCEC is pleased to provide the following program update for the Commonwealth Solar II Rebate Program. As of noon today, June 22, 2012, Block 10 of the Commonwealth Solar II Rebate Program is still open, with $165,116 remaining. Block 10 will remain open until all available funds are reserved or until June 30, 2012 (end of the second calendar quarter), whichever comes first. Block 11 of the Commonwealth Solar II Rebate Program is currently scheduled to launch at 3:00 PM EST on Monday, July 9, 2012.
The Commonwealth Solar II Rebate Program helps finance the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential, non-profit, public, and commercial projects up to 15kW in capacity. Block 11 will consist of $1.5 million and will last until the funds are expended or until the end of the third quarter 2012, whichever is earlier. Quarterly blocks of funding are available for customers of investor owned utilities or Municipal Light Plants that have opted into MassCEC's Renewable Energy Trust.
Please see below for a summary of important program updates. Please note: Full details about all program changes cannot be captured in this email, so please read the program documents carefully!
Block 11 & 12 Rebate Levels (Capacity Measured in DC @ STC)

• Rebate levels will remain the same for Block 11 and Block 12.
• Base Incentive: $0.40/watt
• Massachusetts Company Components Adder: $0.05/watt
• Moderate Home Value Adder/Moderate Income Adder: $0.40/watt
• Natural Disaster Relief Adder: $1.00/watt
   

Program Changes for Block 11

• Qualification for the Moderate Income Adder will be based on an individual's or domestic household's 2011 tax return.
• Installers must submit Version 11 of the Application record.  Expedited Installers will continue to upload documentation in PowerClerk. Non-Expedited Installers will continue to email application documents to cs@masscec.com per the instructions in the Program Manual.
• Effective immediately, all project completion deadlines will be extended to one year from the date of approval (the date that the Notice of Award is issued).
• MassCEC incurs a significant financial penalty for incorrect information listed on W-9s.  Please make sure to work with System Owners to have these forms written clearly and accurately.  When submitting W-9s to MassCEC via email, please submit them to finance@masscec.com without copying other MassCEC staff.
• The Natural Disaster Relief Adder will be available for customers who have experienced damage from a natural disaster.  Please refer to the Program Manual for more detailed requirements.

Block 11 Program documents will be available at www.masscec.com/solar shortly before the launch of Block 11. Again, all changes cannot be captured in this email, so please read the program documents carefully!

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) today announced a new $10 million multi-year program, Commonwealth Solar Hot Water, which will begin accepting applications in July 2012 and continue through 2016. The long-term program is designed to encourage the installation of solar hot water systems at residences and businesses across the Commonwealth.
“This program represents a significant long-term investment that will accelerate the growth of Massachusetts’ solar hot water industry by providing a stable form of funding assistance to residents and companies looking to utilize the sun’s power and save money on energy bills,” said MassCEC Chief Executive Officer Patrick Cloney.
The program will build on the success of two pilot solar hot water programs, which have awarded rebates for 300 residential and commercial-scale systems since February 2011. Similar to the pilot programs, the new Commonwealth Solar Hot Water Program will offer rebates for qualifying solar hot water projects at residential, multi-family and commercial-scale buildings.
“This new solar hot water program will create jobs at solar hot water manufacturing and installation companies, while helping Massachusetts residents and businesses decrease their heating costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Rick Sullivan, who chairs the MassCEC Board of Directors.
Solar hot water systems generate thermal energy from sunlight to heat water. Roof mounted solar collectors for hot water systems look similar to solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, which generate electricity rather than hot water.  A solar hot water system usually provides 50 percent to 75 percent of total household hot water needs. Some systems can also connect with the heating system to provide space heating.  Since roughly 20 percent of the energy consumed by a typical home in Massachusetts goes to heating hot water, solar hot water systems can generate significant savings by decreasing the amount of gas, oil or electricity used to heat the water.
Program funding will be distributed over 4.5 years, through the end of 2016. The first year of the Commonwealth Solar Hot Water program will be funded with $1.5 million from MassCEC’s Renewable Energy Trust Fund.
To date, the completed projects that MassCEC has funded through the Commonwealth Solar Hot Water Residential and Commercial Pilot Programs total almost 15,000 square feet of solar collectors, and produce energy equivalent to the total annual hot water needs of 140 homes.  A total of 55 primary installers have successfully submitted an application through the program.
To find out more about solar hot water, see www.masscec.com/aboutsolar .  Program information for MassCEC’s existing hot water pilot programs is available www.masscec.com/solarhotwater.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is pleased to announce that the Green Communities of Lincoln, Sudbury and Wayland, who are participating in Solarize Mass as a group, have reached the threshold of contracted projects that guarantees the lowest pricing available, with two months left to go before the deadline.  The Solarize Mass program offers a tiered pricing structure that provides increasing discounts as more people participate. These three towns now have contracts for 53 separate systems, representing 484 kW of new capacity, which allows all customers to receive Tier 5 pricing.  For Lincoln, Sudbury, and Wayland, Tier 5 pricing is $3.70/watt, which is 30 percent lower than the average installed cost for small PV systems in the Commonwealth.
“Solarize Massachusetts is producing direct benefits for homeowners and small businesses who are locking in favorable electricity rates for decades to come, and creating jobs for the people who are helping them do it,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan.

Astrum Solar, whose Massachusetts operations are based in nearby Hopkinton, was selected by a committee of local volunteers and municipal officials, with input from state officials, to serve as the designated installer for Lincoln, Sudbury, and Wayland. Astrum Solar works in close contact with volunteer “solar coaches” in each of those towns.   The community solar coach plays a critical role in engaging the community and spurring participation in the Solarize Massachusetts program throughout the summer. The Community Solar Coaches for Lincoln, Sudbury, and Wayland are Jennie Morris, Rami Alwan, and Kaat Vander Straeten, respectively.

“Solarize Mass has proven to be an effective catalyst for increasing the amount of solar PV in the Commonwealth, generating power without any emissions, and creating jobs for people in Massachusetts,” said Eric Macaux, Senior Director of Strategy and Legal Affairs of MassCEC.  “I applaud Lincoln, Sudbury, and Wayland for reaching Tier 5 pricing, and look forward to seeing many more Solarize communities maximize the savings available to them in the Solarize Mass program in the coming months.”

"There are many reasons why I am so excited about the prospect of seeing so much solar in our towns,” said Kaat Vander Straeten, the Wayland Community Solar Coach. “Aside from the environmental benefits, which are substantial, there is also the advantage of greater resilience: a pool of small, local, independent producers of electricity is a lot more resilient than one big, centralized power plant relying on imported fuels. Moreover, people who become producers also become more aware of how much they consume and of the many impacts of their consumption. Hopefully our towns can become models and this new energy landscape won't be extraordinary for long."

Solarize Mass, which is a partnership among the MassCEC and the Green Communities Division of the Department of Energy Resources (DOER), encourages the adoption of small scale solar PV by deploying a coordinated education, marketing and outreach effort, combined with a tiered pricing structure that provides increased savings as more people in the community go solar.  MassCEC provides technical support and hosts free educational meetings in the participating communities to educate people about the benefits of installing solar and to drive interest in implementing the technology. 

MassCEC and DOER launched Solarize Mass last year as a pilot program in four Green Communities, leading to 162 new contracts signed. Seventeen Green Communities - Acton, Arlington, Boston, Hopkinton, Melrose, Mendon, Millbury, Montague, Newburyport, Palmer, Pittsfield, Lenox, Shirley, Sutton, Wayland, Sudbury and Lincoln – were selected in April to participate in phase two of the program, which runs through September. 

For more information about Solarize Mass, visit www.SolarizeMass.com and follow the twitter hash tag #SolarizeMass.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC)  is pleased to announce that the Green Communities of Pittsfield and Lenox, who are participating in Solarize Mass as a group, have reached the threshold of contracted projects to reach Tier 3 of pricing, with two months left to go before the deadline.  The Solarize Mass program offers a tiered pricing structure that provides increasing discounts as more people participate. These two towns now have contracts for 8 separate systems, representing 54.25 kW of new capacity, which allows all customers to receive Tier 3 pricing.  For Pittsfield and Lenox, Tier 3 pricing is $3.90/watt, which is 20 percent lower than the average installed cost for small PV systems in the Commonwealth.
“Solarize Massachusetts is producing direct benefits for homeowners and small businesses who are locking in favorable electricity rates for decades to come, and creating jobs for the people who are helping them do it,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan.

Astrum Solar, whose Massachusetts operations are based in Hopkinton, was selected by a committee of local volunteers and municipal officials, with input from state officials, to serve as the designated installer for Pittsfield and Lenox. Astrum works in close contact with volunteer “solar coaches” in each of those towns.   The community solar coach plays a critical role in engaging the community and spurring participation in the Solarize Massachusetts program throughout the summer. The Community Solar Coaches for Pittsfield and Lenox are Nate Joyner and Susan May, respectively. The Municipal Representatives for the program are Pittsfield Parks and Open Space Manager Jim McGrath, and Lenox Sustainability Coordinator Adele Gravitz.

"I am thrilled to see such an enthusiastic response from the people of Pittsfield," said Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier. "Solarize Mass is a great program that will make a real difference in greening our community while saving our residents real dollars."

“Solarize Mass has proven to be an effective catalyst for increasing the amount of solar PV in the Commonwealth, generating power without any emissions, and creating jobs for people in Massachusetts,” said Eric Macaux, Senior Director of Strategy and Legal Affairs of MassCEC.  “I applaud Pittsfield and Lenox for reaching Tier 3 pricing, and look forward to seeing many more Solarize communities maximize the savings available to them in the Solarize Mass program in the coming months.”

"The Pittsfield team is very excited about reaching Tier 3 and said Nate Joyner, the Pittsfield Community Solar Coach. “We want to take this opportunity to encourage Pittsfield and Lenox residents to talk to their friends and neighbors to get our community to that Tier 5 pricing by September.  We feel that reaching Tier 3 so quickly is a testament to the interest and enthusiasm Solarize is generating in Pittsfield and Lenox and we look forward to sharing this opportunity with everyone in our community interested in solar.

Solarize Mass, which is a partnership among the MassCEC and the Green Communities Division of the Department of Energy Resources (DOER), encourages the adoption of small scale solar PV by deploying a coordinated education, marketing and outreach effort, combined with a tiered pricing structure that provides increased savings as more people in the community go solar.  MassCEC provides technical support and hosts free educational meetings in the participating communities to educate people about the benefits of installing solar and to drive interest in implementing the technology.  

MassCEC and DOER launched Solarize Mass last year as a pilot program in four Green Communities, leading to 162 new contracts signed. Seventeen Green Communities - Acton, Arlington, Boston, Hopkinton, Melrose, Mendon, Millbury, Montague, Newburyport, Palmer, Pittsfield, Lenox, Shirley, Sutton, Wayland, Sudbury and Lincoln – were selected in April to participate in phase two of the program, which runs through September. 

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) today announced Massachusetts’ clean energy economy grew by 11.2 percent from July 2011 to July 2012. According to the 2012 Massachusetts Clean Energy Industry Report released today the growing sector now employs 71,523 people at 4,995 clean energy firms across Massachusetts.

"I have said from the beginning of this Administration that, if we get clean energy right, the world will be our customer. This past year’s 11.2 percent increase in clean energy jobs means that we are getting it right and the world knows it,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “Investing in our nation-leading clean energy agenda is the right thing to do for our environment, our energy independence, our public health and our economic vitality. We owe it to our future to keep this momentum going strong.”

“The clean energy revolution is taking hold and creating local jobs,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan, who chairs the MassCEC Board of Directors. “Through Governor Patrick’s vision and supported by MassCEC’s innovative programs, the Commonwealth’s clean energy economy is growing rapidly, despite a tough economic environment across the nation.”

“Our innovation economy, including the clean energy sector, has been one of the drivers of our economic recovery and through our long-term economic development plan the Patrick-Murray Administration is committed to continuing that growth,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Greg Bialecki. “This report shows that our clean energy sector is growing and providing good jobs throughout the Commonwealth, and that there is room in the future for more growth in this innovative industry.”

According to the report, 71,523 people are directly involved in work related to the state’s clean energy sector, an increase of 11.2 percent over 2011. This growth outpaced the overall economy nearly ten times over, and it’s expected to continue. Employers surveyed are optimistic about the coming year and expect to hire more workers in 2013. Clean energy continues to maintain its place as one of the Commonwealth’s marquee industries, with 1.7 percent of the total Massachusetts workforce.

The survey found a large number of firms in varied industries - ranging from construction and manufacturing to research and development - reporting activity and employment in the clean energy sector. Additionally the report identified a large number of companies that don’t necessarily identify themselves as clean energy companies first, but directly engage in activities related to the clean energy cluster - showing that clean energy penetrates numerous sectors of the Massachusetts economy.

“This report is proof that Massachusetts’ innovation economy is succeeding,” said incoming MassCEC Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Alicia Barton McDevitt, who begins her term on August 20. “The report affirms Massachusetts’ role as a national and global leader in clean energy development and deployment, and a success made possible by our talented workforce, world-class academic and research institutions, and Governor Patrick's vision for a clean energy future in Massachusetts.”

For the purposes of the report, a clean energy firm is defined as an employer engaged in whole or in part in providing goods and services related to renewable energy, energy efficiency, alternative transportation, and carbon management. Clean energy workers are defined as spending at least a portion of their time supporting the clean energy aspects of their businesses.

The 2012 Massachusetts Clean Energy Industry Report, which includes a breakdown of company and employment data by technology sector and geographic region and information on workforce trends, was prepared by BW Research Partnership on behalf of MassCEC.

BW Research Partnership administered surveys online and by telephone to a list of employers known to be engaged in the clean energy industry, as well as to a representative, clustered, random sample of companies from the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) industries identified by the Bureau of Labor Statistics as being potentially related to the renewable energy, energy efficiency, and alternative transportation sectors.

In total, researchers made more than 16,000 telephone calls and sent more than 5,200 emails to employers, yielding 930 survey responses with a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent at a 95 percent confidence level.

“This study illustrates just how strong and diverse the clean energy economy is in Massachusetts,” said BW Research Vice President Phil Jordan. “Compared to other regions that we have studied, the rare mix of world-class educational institutions, venture capital, entrepreneurial small businesses, supportive government policies, and an eager and educated consumer base make this a state home to one of the strongest and most exciting clean energy sectors in the nation.

ReBuild Western Massachusetts officials are urging owners of homes and businesses damaged by last summer’s tornadoes to take advantage of its program, which provides loans and grants to building owners for energy efficient upgrades. The deadline to register is October 1, 2012.
Since its launch last fall, the ReBuild Western Massachusetts program, funded by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and administered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), has helped dozens of homeowners and businesses obtain grants and/or zero interest loans to repair, renovate or rebuild using smart energy approaches.

“This program demonstrates the Patrick-Murray Administration’s continued commitment to help these communities rebuild,” said Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Rick Sullivan. “We hope more homeowners and business owners take advantage of this great program to make their properties more energy efficient, saving them money in the long run and increasing their comfort.”

Eligible property owners in Hampden and Worcester Counties may apply for loans or grants to fund attic, wall, and basement insulation; high efficiency heating and hot water systems; Energy Star® replacement windows and doors; and solar electric and solar hot water systems.

“Without the loan, I couldn’t have done the things we did to bring the house up to the highest energy rating,” said Springfield resident Armando Feliciano, who received a $20,000 zero percent loan through Hampden Bank to rebuild his home that was destroyed by the June 1 tornado.

“This program is a continuation of our commitment to the Western Massachusetts communities affected by the June 1 tornadoes,” said DOER Commissioner Mark Sylvia. “Helping people rebuild their homes and businesses using energy efficient methods cuts energy costs, saves people money, and creates local jobs.”

“Communities that invest in energy efficiency cut long-term energy costs while creating local jobs,” said MassCEC CEO and Executive Director Alicia Barton McDevitt. “This recovery is not just about rebuilding what there was before but using the opportunity to construct something better that uses less energy and saves money.”

Property owners who suffered storm damage have until October 1, 2012 to contact the program and begin the application process. The building improvements need to be complete by December 31, 2012 and final completed application, receipts and invoices must be submitted no later than January 31, 2013.

Participants are eligible to apply if an insurance company, FEMA or other supporting state, local, and federal agencies has documented damage to their home or business. Interested applicants should go to www.mass.gov/energy/rebuildwesternma or call 877-524-1325 to make an appointment with an application and technical advisor.

NOTE: The program information associated with this announcement has been updated.  For updated information, view the latest release.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) today announced a new $1 million program to further the development of clean energy technology in Massachusetts.

Under the program, MassCEC will offer between $100,000 and $300,000 for projects designed to address energy challenges facing the Commonwealth – such as renewable energy optimization, fuel efficient vehicles or energy storage – and will require a 50 percent in matching funds. MassCEC will award the funds to help companies finance demonstration projects, which test and showcase new technologies in preparation to commercialize technologies for the marketplace.

“Massachusetts companies are creating some of the most leading-edge clean energy technologies. Our support will help them create local jobs across the state and expand the adoption of clean energy,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan.

“Helping our emerging companies bring new technologies to market is at the core of our mission to grow the Massachusetts clean energy economy,” said MassCEC CEO Alicia Barton-McDevitt. “Our investments in workforce development, incentives and commercialization are producing results including double-digit clean energy job growth in Massachusetts over the past year.”

Under the Patrick-Murray Administration's leadership, the Massachusetts’ clean energy economy grew by 11.2 percent from July 2011 to July 2012, according to the 2012 Massachusetts Clean Energy Industry Report, which shows the growing sector employs 71,523 people at 4,995 clean energy firms across the Commonwealth.

MassCEC will unveil the program details at the Global Clean Tech Meet-up set for October 15 through 18 in Boston and Cambridge. The Global Clean Tech Meet-up – an event sponsored by MassCEC, the Massachusetts Technology Transfer Center (MTTC), the New England Clean Energy Council and the Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems – is expected to draw 500 attendees from around the world including representatives from France, Japan, Israel, Canada, and Mexico.

The development of clean energy technologies requires a successful demonstration and validation of the technology in order to make it investable and ready for mass production.

With the idea of benefiting a large cross-section of the Massachusetts clean energy sector, under this program MassCEC will give preference to projects that involve multiple companies, research institutions and energy consumers, relationships that could be forged at the Global Clean Tech Meet-up. Potential co-applicants can meet and propose strategic partnerships to respond to the RFP at the Global Clean Tech Meet-up.

MassCEC will issue the program details including the topic areas in a Request for Proposals on October 1. MassCEC will host topic area sessions at the Global Clean Tech Meet-up on October 16 and 17. The first deadline for proposals is November 5 with the final applications due February 4, 2013.

“As a former CEO of a Massachusetts clean energy technology company, I know how important the demonstration phase of product development is and this funding opportunity fills a much-needed gap for early-stage companies,” said Mitch Tyson, Meet-up Executive Committee Member and Board Chair of the New England Clean Energy Council.

“The Global Cleantech Meet-up is the Commonwealth’s premier clean energy event that brings companies from all around the world to hear from and meet with the inspiring and leading voices of our clean energy ecosystem. I’m looking forward to seeing the business results of the connections made at the conference,” said Abigail Barrow, co-chair of the Meet-up and Founding Director of the MTTC.

“I applaud the MassCEC for their leadership in helping to build the energy industry in Massachusetts. This innovative funding program is a powerful way for energy companies to deploy and demonstrate their products and we look forward to seeing this program grow.  FastCAP Systems is a supportive participant in the Summit and this initiative has made our participation even more relevant this year,” said Riccardo Signorelli, CEO of FastCAP Systems.