Eversource Helps A Place To Grow Become Energy Efficient

BEDFORD, NH – Eversource recently assisted A Place to Grow with installing more energy-efficient heat pumps to reduce costs and keep staff and students comfortable as part of its Small Business Energy Solutions program. Eversource said the early childhood learning center has added sustainability, along with a savings of $4,800 in annual energy costs.

When Jennifer Briggs purchased the property in 2016, she said she immediately noticed that many of the building's features were outdated and inefficient and turned to Eversource to improve comfort and energy use.

"Improving your facility and finding opportunities to save money while also running the business takes a lot of time and planning," said Briggs. "Eversource guided me throughout the process and helped identify energy-efficient solutions along the way. We are committed to being more sustainable, and it shows in everything we do; it is a part of our classroom lessons, daily activities, and even our logo."

The energy efficiency work completed included replacing more than 70 fluorescent and incandescent interior and exterior lights with LED lighting and controls. The weatherization project completed by Shakes to Shingles sealed drafts and improved insulation, while six new air source heat pumps improved the comfort and temperature consistency throughout the building.

"Eversource is proud to be a trusted source for energy expertise and support projects that help small businesses save money and energy, while reducing their impact on the environment," said Eversource Vice President of Energy Efficiency Tilak Subrahmanian. "A Place to Grow operates year-round, has long hours and serves children, which made it the perfect candidate for energy-efficient upgrades. The center went above and beyond and now uses its experience to teach its students and their families about sustainability."

Briggs replaced the roof and installed a solar array that produces a majority of the building's energy.

Eversource's Small Business Energy Solutions program served more than 1,800 New Hampshire small business customers in 2018.