EAST HARTFORD, Conn., Nov. 7, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc. (CCAT) was named an Environmental Partner Finalist for the 2013-2016 Environmental Leadership Award by the University of Connecticut Environmental Policy Advisory Council at an awards ceremony on October 25, 2016. The award distinguishes CCAT's dedication and contribution to environmental sustainability at UConn.
The Environmental Leadership Awards were created by the university as a way to honor individuals as well as UConn-affiliated groups that have truly excelled in their efforts to contribute to environmental awareness and promote progress through their 'green' programs.
According to the University of Connecticut Environmental Policy Advisory Council, CCAT was recognized for developing a Preliminary Feasibility Study and Strategic Deployment Plan for Renewable & Sustainable Energy Projects at the UConn campus in Storrs.
"We are proud to be recognized by UConn for our work in supporting and expanding the university's renewable and sustainable energy efforts," stated Joel Rinebold, energy director, CCAT. "We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the university to spur the use of new energy technologies that will contribute to increased power and cost savings well into the future."
The plan identified and assessed target locations for the development of 12 demonstration-scale renewable and sustainable energy projects for technologies, including solar thermal, solar photovoltaic, wind, fuel cells, geothermal, and biofuels. The deployment of renewable energy systems, as detailed in the plan, could support research efforts for power system planning, and integration of clean and renewable technologies into a smart grid.
CCAT also assisted UConn by providing information and coordinating the development of the project feasibility application for the state's Microgrid Grant and Loan Pilot Program.
CCAT is working with UConn to identify potential locations for hydrogen refueling stations at or near biomass sites that could potentially be used by state or other public or private-sector vehicle fleets. The potential sources of hydrogen would support zero-emission, fuel cell electric vehicles to increase transportation efficiency, improve environmental performance, increase economic development, and create new jobs.
CCAT continues to team with the Center for Clean Energy Engineering (C2E2), the Institute for Materials Science, and others at UConn to consider anaerobic digestion, manufacturing supply chain, hydrogen production, materials/catalysts development, and use of renewables (wind) at UConn facilities.
About CCAT
Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc. (CCAT) is a nonprofit organization, headquartered in East Hartford, Conn., that creates and executes bold ideas advancing applied technologies, IT strategies, energy solutions, STEM education, and career development. By leading state, regional, and national partnerships, CCAT helps manufacturers, academia, government and nonprofit organizations excel. Learn more at ccat.us, or follow CCAT on Twitter - @CCATInc.