Bridgeport Innovation Center (BIC) supports a diverse community of small businesses, artists, and start-ups, located within a 250,000 square foot campus of ten historic buildings. This facility is the first and largest small business incubator in Connecticut with approximately 160 tenants - arguably the most successful job creator in Bridgeport. To promote the spirit of innovation, BIC introduced the concept of ”MakerSpace” in Bridgeport to encourage creativity, teamwork, and entrepreneurialism.

​

BIC recently completed a clean energy upgrade to reduce energy costs, improve occupant comfort, and reduce environmental impact. MHR Development worked with BIC (as a representative of the Connecticut Green Bank) to provide project planning, program management, and technical support for this project.  This included common and individual tenant space upgrades, EnergyStar LED lighting, conversion of antiquated oil boilers to high-efficiency natural gas boilers, and a multi-building solar photovoltaic installation – producing enough power to support 20 single family homes.

​

This showcase project was underwritten with support from various utility and state programs.  The solar installation generates Renewable Energy Credits (ZRECs), in connection with a tariff agreement with United Illuminating.  The project was one of the first Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financed projects in the City of Bridgeport.