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October 10, 2024

CHEFA’s Capital Investments Loan Program Fuels Critical Energy Efficiency Upgrades at the New Canaan YMCA

At the heart of the New Canaan community, the YMCA has long been a vital resource, serving thousands of residents of all ages with programs that promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. In addition to its role in providing health and wellness services, the YMCA has also served as an emergency shelter during critical situations, including major storms that have left residents without power for days.

Now, thanks to an innovative energy efficiency project supported by CHEFA’s Capital Investments Loan Program, the YMCA is preparing to expand its ability to fulfill this important function while simultaneously reducing its environmental impact.

On August 1, 2024 CHEFA made a $500,000 loan to the New Canaan YMCA from its Capital Investments Loan Program, which is designed to provide affordable financing to non-profit organizations for capital improvements. For the YMCA, this funding will support the installation of a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) unit and a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). These cutting-edge energy systems are part of a broader project aimed at increasing energy efficiency and ensuring that the YMCA is always ready to serve as an emergency shelter for the town, especially during severe storms.

The energy efficiency upgrades represent a significant leap forward in the YMCA’s sustainability efforts. By installing the CHP unit, which generates electricity while repurposing heat, and the BESS, which stores energy for use during peak demand and emergencies, the YMCA will drastically reduce its reliance on the local power grid. The CHP unit is expected to generate between 50% and 90% of the YMCA’s electricity needs, cutting its carbon emissions by two-thirds and positioning the facility as a model for environmentally responsible operations.

But the project’s benefits go beyond sustainability. The installation of a permanent, energy-efficient generator will enable the YMCA to operate continuously as the town’s official emergency shelter. During past storms, the YMCA has played a crucial role in providing residents with a safe haven—offering heat, showers, device charging, and general respite. However, in those instances, the facility had to rely on rented diesel generators, which were expensive, difficult to transport, and dependent on weather forecasts. With the new system in place, the YMCA will always be ready to support the community in times of crisis, providing reliable emergency services more efficiently and at a lower cost.

This project also offers a long-term financial benefit for the YMCA through operational savings resulting from reduced utility and water consumption. These savings will allow the YMCA to reinvest in its core mission—serving the community through its diverse range of programs, from early childhood education to senior wellness initiatives. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, when non-profit organizations like the YMCA have faced unprecedented financial challenges, these savings come at a critical time.

CHEFA’s Capital Investments Loan Program has proven to be a key resource for non-profits like the New Canaan YMCA. By providing access to affordable financing for capital improvements, the fund helps organizations enhance their services and infrastructure while supporting long-term financial health. If your organization has a need for affordable financing, please reach out to Dan Kurowski at dkurowski@chefa.com or check our website for more information on the program’s terms.