MANY MINDEDConnecticut Solar Procurement Stalls as Utility Blocks Major Projects
Connecticut’s largest utility, Eversource, has declined to finalize contracts for 54 MW of solar capacity selected in December 2025. The utility cited 'over-market' prices and 'unresolved decisions' in Connecticut’s energy policy as reasons for refusing to sign agreements. Eversource remains in discussions with developers but has not committed to finalizing these contracts. This blocks immediate solar adoption for the projects, potentially delaying clean energy access for households and businesses.
The friction stems from Connecticut’s procurement process, where 71 MW of solar capacity has come online since 2022. Eversource argues Connecticut lacks long-term clean energy strategies comparable to Massachusetts, a concern that has stalled previous procurements—like a 2024 effort to secure 518 MW of solar capacity. Meanwhile, Connecticut continues pursuing solar through other states: it plans to procure 63.4 MW from New Hampshire and Maine, and three New England states committed to 102 MW in Connecticut’s October 2026 procurement.
This delay creates friction in energy access for Connecticut households, as Eversource explicitly states energy affordability is 'top of mind.' The utility’s concerns about passing costs to customers could slow solar adoption, directly impacting SUSTENANCE and SECURITY. If unresolved, it may hinder Connecticut’s 2040 clean energy target.
What to watch: The Husky Solar project (12.5 MW for Connecticut, 37.5 MW for Maine and Massachusetts) is under review by the Connecticut Siting Council with a decision expected in Q1 2027. The article’s future date (published October 7, 2026) and Eversource’s critique of Connecticut’s policy framework also require attention. This friction highlights how policy gaps can stall clean energy access even as procurement efforts continue elsewhere in the region.
Source: Canary Media