Naval Submarine Base Breaks Ground on Fuel Cell Generation Park
July 26, 2018Yesterday State Senator Paul Formica (R-East Lyme) and State Representative Holly Cheeseman (R-East Lyme) attended the groundbreaking of a new fuel cell generation park located at the Naval Submarine Base New London.
The 7.4 megawatt natural gas, fuel cell generation park will be used to supply the local power grid as well as the submarine base. The on-base location enhances energy reliability and security for the naval base. It is also a step in the submarine base’s efforts to develop a micro-grid at the base to enhance power diversification, physical and energy security, and community collaboration.
The lawmakers were joined by Commanding Officer Captain Paul Whitescarver, the State Office of Military Affairs, Connecticut Municipal Electric Energy Cooperative, and FuelCell Energy, Inc, a Connecticut company that provides energy services around the world.
The sub base has been a leader in technological advancement. This project is anticipated to be a critical advancement creating long-term sustained value to the subbase military and surrounding communities by providing predictable, clean and resilient power.