Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1534934
4 HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | MAY 5, 2025 I n the heart of West Haven, Connecticut, a vibrant community thrives, driven by the spirit and positivity of its residents. Mayor Dorinda Borer proudly describes West Haven as a place where people join to support one another, creating a strong and spirited community. This sense of unity and collaboration is evident in the success of local businesses, particularly those benefiting from the Small Business Energy Advantage program offered by United Illuminating (UI) and EnergizeCT. The Small Business Energy Advantage program is designed to help small businesses across Connecti- cut reduce their energy consumption and save mon- ey on their utility bills. Colleen Morrison, Manager of Customer Program & Products at UI, explains, "The program is geared towards small businesses in local communities across Connecticut. The Main Street campaign here in West Haven is for us to go out and educate the community, look at their usage to see if they qualify, and educate them on things they can do in their business to save money on their electric utility bills and gas bills." One shining example of this program's success is Duffy's, a local business in West Haven owned by Chris Walsh. Walsh expresses his gratitude for being considered for the program: "I just want to say how grateful I am as a business owner even to be con- sidered for this. I think you said it perfectly, Marriott, when you said that the biggest challenge for this program is a lack of knowledge. Hopefully, this will get it out there a little bit more." Marriott Dowden, Manager of Conservation & Load Management at UI, highlights the program's benefits for customers. "The programs benefit our customers— it's a cost savings for them. Ultimately, by consuming less energy or running your businesses more efficient- ly, whether it's improving light levels for your custom- ers or creating a more comfortable and productive en- Empowering Small Businesses: A Success Story in West Haven vironment in your buildings, facilities, and businesses." The impact of the UI's Small Business Energy Advan- tage program extends beyond individual businesses. Mayor Borer emphasizes the broader benefits for the community, saying, "It's no surprise that this success story from this energy-efficient program here at Duffy's. Chris [Walsh] wants to share that success with other business owners. It allows his fellow busi- ness owners to focus their efforts in other areas and use the funding from their business to help in differ- ent areas, while not worrying about energy costs and what they could be doing differently to save money. When everybody's successful, it benefits all of us. It's not just about one business or one resident. We come together as a community when we need to, and it just really benefits everybody." United Illuminating, a subsidiary of Avangrid, provides safe, reliable electric service to customers in the greater New Haven and Bridgeport areas of Connecti- cut. Their commitment to lowering energy costs and promoting energy efficiency is evident through various programs and initiatives. The Small Business Energy Advantage program is just one example of how UI sup- ports local communities and helps businesses thrive. Businesses interested in learning more about UI's ser- vices and resources to help them manage their energy usage and bills can visit uinet.com for more resources. From online payment options to energy assessments through the Energy Solutions Program, UI is dedicat- ed to assisting customers in reducing their energy costs and improving their overall energy efficiency. Its service and innovative solutions reflect the company's focus on customer experience and excellence. As communities like West Haven continue to grow and prosper, collaboration between local businesses and UI plays a crucial role in fostering a sustainable and thriv- ing community. Duffy's and other businesses' success in the Small Business Energy Advantage program serves as a testament to the power of community support and the positive impact of energy efficiency initiatives. The Small Business Energy Advantage program offered by United Illuminating is making a significant difference in the lives of small business owners in West Haven. By reducing energy costs and promoting efficiency, the program helps businesses save money and contributes to the community's overall well-be- ing. As Mayor Borer aptly says, "When everybody's successful, it benefits all of us." SPONSORED CONTENT