Two SE CT Companies Work Together to “Go Green“

   Millions of people talk about going green as a great way to help the planet and its inhabitants, but for most people this is just a vague concept.  Jonathan Duncklee, Duncklee Cooling & Heating in Stonington, is one of those who practice what they preach, especially about ‘going green’. “Every day, we need to be environmentally conscious,” he says. “And it is encouraging to see that our state government has begun providing positive incentives for both residents and businesses over the past few years.”

   When he heard about the state of CT’s Small ZREC Program a couple of years ago, he decided to jump on it, and called Bonner Electric in Norwich. Duncklee, who stays on top of the latest in energy news both personally and professionally, told Brian Bonner, “I want to do this. Let’s talk about putting solar panels on our building’s roof.” Why would a small businessman be so interested in solar energy and the latest state program? He could see the tangible advantages to his business, such as empowering him to improve his bottom line by taking advantage of the program rebates for energy-saving as well as renewable energy improvements, but it also falls within his clean environment philosophy.

   “More and more businesses are trimming costs by looking deeply at how they use energy, and the state of CT was offering me a chance to reduce upfront costs and affordable financing, but I had to move fast,” shares Duncklee. “We are an energy company, this is what we do. Even though we offer cooling and heating, we are aware of renewable energy, and are always looking to offer our own customers the best, most efficient products.  And here was our state government offering us an opportunity to make some advance movement into renewable to make our own business cleaner and more profitable at the same time.”

   Although there was an initial investment to apply, Duncklee was committed to proceed with the project. “The payback a few years down the road is phenomenal for a business like us,” says Duncklee. “And we have worked with Bonner Electric before and trust their capabilities to work with us from the application process through to completion of the construction.” Both businesses began back in the 70’s, when there was a lot more manufacturing industry in eastern CT. The close relationship began with the company founders, Jonathan’s father Les Duncklee and Brian’s father Joseph Bonner. That is why it seemed like a natural fit to work together on this project.

   “Jonathan and Brian epitomize the best in our small businesses,” said State Senator Andrew Maynard (D-Stonington), Vice Chair of the Connecticut General Assembly’s Environment Committee. “We in the legislature created these types of business incentives to reward innovative business people. By taking advantage of the State’s support, these local businesses will be greener and more profitable. It’s a win for the businesses, their customers, and the entire state.”

Contact Information

Jonathan Duncklee

Vice President

Duncklee Cooling & Heating

(1) 860-535-2552

jduncklee@dunckleeinc.com