Simsbury Sustainability Committee

02/06/2026

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

In this issue, we take a look at heat pumps and how they can increase efficiency while lowering emissions and costs.

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates: https://ct-simsbury.civicplus.com/list.aspx

12/23/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

In this issue, we share our research on case studies from throughout Connecticut where municipalities have installed solar projects with no upfront costs and reduced their electricity bills. Increasingly, solar energy is the path to fiscal responsibility. We hope to learn from these examples as we figure out the best path for Simsbury.

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber

11/07/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

This issue focuses on the committee's Sustainability Plan, which was recently endorsed by the Simsbury Board of Selectmen.

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber

10/08/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

In this edition, we have compiled a how-to guide on how to recycle just about anything in Simsbury. You'll want to hold onto this one!

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber

09/23/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

In this edition, we take a look at several local building projects that are utilizing cost- and energy-efficient practices and technologies.

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber

08/25/2025

As many of you are aware, Federal legislation signed into law last month will eliminate Federal tax credits for renewable energy projects, beginning as soon as December 31, 2025.

The Powersmart Campaign has invited Mike Trahan, Executive Director of the Connecticut Solar and Storage Association, to present on this subject this coming Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 6:30 pm. Persons interested in going solar or adding battery storage are strongly encouraged to attend.

Here are the details to join the Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89943751024?pwd=JabOW29MdZIwYj0wsu7zVPcrFq9qrO.1

Meeting ID: 899 4375 1024
Passcode: 405147

For further information, please see Jan Ellen Spiegel’s recent article in the CT Mirror: https://ctmirror.org/2025/07/29/ct-solar-big-beautiful-bill/

By ending a tax credit, the bill could slam the brakes on renewable power. In CT, and all of New England, the brunt will be felt on solar.

08/06/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

Our August issue wraps up newsletters authored by the Simsbury Pollinator Pathway. To assist readers with biodiversity projects, native plant selection, home pollinator gardening, creating a home habitat, and climate-friendly options, SPP has created this resource guide with sections for each topic. While it’s not possible to be comprehensive, this is designed to provide local and web resources that SPP board members have found helpful.

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber

07/23/2025

If you think you might be losing energy and money through leaky doors, windows, and duct work, or you’re not sure your insulation is making the grade, now is a great time to schedule a home energy checkup with Home Energy Solutions℠. Home Energy Solutions℠ works by connecting you to rebates and incentives to make energy efficiency improvements–regardless of the heating fuel you use, or if you’re a homeowner, renter or landlord.

Your visit may include:

*Approximately $950 in products and services
*A Home Energy Score
*Custom energy-saving recommendations for your home
*Rebates and financial incentives to help you save, like up to 75 percent off a recommended insulation project

On average, Connecticut households save $180 per year from the visit. Weatherization upgrades, like air sealing and insulation, can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 20 percent, so you can be comfortable for less

Schedule your Home Energy Solutions℠ visit by Sunday, August 31, 2025, and they will waive the $75 copay. Your visit must be completed by Friday, October 31, 2025 in order to qualify.

More information about the program can be found here:
https://www.eversource.com/content/residential/save-money-energy/energy-efficiency-programs/home-energy-solutions

Or you can call them at 877-WISE-USE (877-947-3873) to learn more.

Receive on-the-spot energy-saving improvements and custom recommendations with Home Energy Solutions. And we'll connect you to rebates and incentives to make larger improvements – regardless of the heating fuel you use, if you’re a homeowner, renter or landlord.

07/02/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

This month's issue is all about hummingbirds! We are partnering again with the Simsbury Pollinator Pathway to discuss the ruby-throated hummingbird and how to attract them to your yard.

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber

06/06/2025

Ever thought about collecting sunlight and transforming it into electricity? Solar panels on their own can only make energy when the sun is shining. But battery systems can store that solar energy for later use or even when the grid goes down.

Whether you are trying to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels or seeking to gain more control over your energy use, solar + battery storage can save the day!

VIRTUAL INFO SESSION: TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 6:30-8:00PM

Please join from your computer, tablet or smartphone:
https://meet.goto.com/85042012

You can also dial in using your phone:
Access Code: 850-420-125 • United States (Toll Free): 1 877 309 2073
get the app now and be ready when the meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

Your town and energy/sustainability committee encourage you to attend this presentation to learn about solar energy and battery storage systems, including right-sizing your system, selecting a contractor and state and federal incentives to help lower the costs.

06/06/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

June is National Pollinator Month! In this issue, Simsbury Pollinator Pathway shares some great information on supporting biodiversity, recognizing the issues, and steps you can take at home to reverse these challenges. There are also some lawn and garden tips from Aquarion

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber

05/02/2025

Our latest edition of the Sustainable Simsbury Newsletter is out!

This issue is one for the birds! We discuss how to encourage birds to visit to your yard (while also being bear aware!).

To subscribe to future newsletters, please visit the E-Subscribers Portal here and check the box for Sustainability under News or Announcements Updates:
https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/subscriber