Intelligent power management firm Eaton is set to deploy a clean energy microgrid at the new Manchester Public Library in Connecticut, supporting reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible power. The facility will become the first newly built structure in the state to integrate grid-interactive renewable energy, battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) charging, helping lower energy costs while easing pressure on the local electricity network. Targeted for completion in 2026, the project is designed to be zero net energy (ZNE) ready.
Through its Buildings as a Grid strategy, Eaton will enable a flexible and responsive energy system that allows the Town of Manchester to better align energy generation with consumption while improving overall grid performance. By coordinating onsite renewable generation, energy storage and EV charging with regional energy markets, the system will help the library operate more efficiently and assist utilities in managing peak demand.
According to Paul Ryan, vice president and general manager of energy transition at Eaton, the new library demonstrates how advanced energy management can cut operating costs, strengthen resilience and support long-term sustainability. He added that Eaton’s intelligent power solutions are expected to deliver lasting value for both the town and its residents.
The project will utilize approximately 370 kilowatts (kW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity paired with battery storage to produce low-carbon electricity and reduce utility expenses. Eaton is supplying the electrical infrastructure, comprehensive engineering services and return-on-investment modeling. Its microgrid controls and grid-interactive xStorage battery energy storage system (BESS) will maximize onsite solar use while enabling surplus power to be exported to the grid to enhance stability. In addition, Eaton’s EV charging collaboration with ChargePoint will provide smart charging infrastructure that helps manage site power demand, control costs and improve reliability.
Town Manager Steve Stephanou noted that the community strongly backs the development of the advanced library as a symbol of sustainability, innovation and learning. He emphasized that Eaton’s progressive technologies and close collaboration with project partners have been instrumental in making Connecticut’s first net-zero public library a reality.
Funding for the initiative includes federal tax incentives, state and local contributions, and support from the Energy Storage Solutions program. This program is overseen by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), funded by electricity ratepayers, and administered by the Connecticut Green Bank, Eversource and the United Illuminating Company (UI).
Angie McMillin, president of Energy Solutions and Services at Eaton, will present a keynote at the Reuters Energy LIVE conference in Houston on December 9, highlighting approaches to rapid onsite power delivery, energy resilience and sustainability. Her session will feature the Manchester Public Library project as a model for delivering affordable, dependable and clean energy.
Eaton is a global leader in intelligent power management, focused on environmental protection and enhancing quality of life worldwide. The company provides solutions for data centers, utilities, industrial and commercial facilities, residential applications, aerospace and mobility markets. Guided by a commitment to responsible business practices and sustainable operations, Eaton helps customers manage power needs today and into the future.
Established in 1911, Eaton has continually adapted to evolving market demands. With revenues approaching $25 billion in 2024, the company supports customers across more than 160 countries.
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Through its Buildings as a Grid strategy, Eaton will enable a flexible and responsive energy system that allows the Town of Manchester to better align energy generation with consumption while improving overall grid performance. By coordinating onsite renewable generation, energy storage and EV charging with regional energy markets, the system will help the library operate more efficiently and assist utilities in managing peak demand.
According to Paul Ryan, vice president and general manager of energy transition at Eaton, the new library demonstrates how advanced energy management can cut operating costs, strengthen resilience and support long-term sustainability. He added that Eaton’s intelligent power solutions are expected to deliver lasting value for both the town and its residents.
The project will utilize approximately 370 kilowatts (kW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity paired with battery storage to produce low-carbon electricity and reduce utility expenses. Eaton is supplying the electrical infrastructure, comprehensive engineering services and return-on-investment modeling. Its microgrid controls and grid-interactive xStorage battery energy storage system (BESS) will maximize onsite solar use while enabling surplus power to be exported to the grid to enhance stability. In addition, Eaton’s EV charging collaboration with ChargePoint will provide smart charging infrastructure that helps manage site power demand, control costs and improve reliability.
Town Manager Steve Stephanou noted that the community strongly backs the development of the advanced library as a symbol of sustainability, innovation and learning. He emphasized that Eaton’s progressive technologies and close collaboration with project partners have been instrumental in making Connecticut’s first net-zero public library a reality.
Funding for the initiative includes federal tax incentives, state and local contributions, and support from the Energy Storage Solutions program. This program is overseen by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), funded by electricity ratepayers, and administered by the Connecticut Green Bank, Eversource and the United Illuminating Company (UI).
Angie McMillin, president of Energy Solutions and Services at Eaton, will present a keynote at the Reuters Energy LIVE conference in Houston on December 9, highlighting approaches to rapid onsite power delivery, energy resilience and sustainability. Her session will feature the Manchester Public Library project as a model for delivering affordable, dependable and clean energy.
Eaton is a global leader in intelligent power management, focused on environmental protection and enhancing quality of life worldwide. The company provides solutions for data centers, utilities, industrial and commercial facilities, residential applications, aerospace and mobility markets. Guided by a commitment to responsible business practices and sustainable operations, Eaton helps customers manage power needs today and into the future.
Established in 1911, Eaton has continually adapted to evolving market demands. With revenues approaching $25 billion in 2024, the company supports customers across more than 160 countries.
Click here to know more.