HyAxiom and Scale Microgrids Team Up for Bridgeport Energy Project

NuPower Sells Bridgeport Fuel Cell Project to Scale Microgrids in a Landmark Clean Energy Deal

The renewable energy sector took another step forward as NuPower, a Connecticut-based developer of sustainable energy projects, finalized the sale of its 9.6-megawatt combined heat and power (CHP) fuel cell project in Bridgeport to Scale Microgrids, a New Jersey-based energy company. This pre-construction project represents a significant development in clean energy, blending cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships, and a clear focus on environmental sustainability.

NuPower’s Strategic Sale

For NuPower, selling the Bridgeport project is more than a transaction; it’s a strategic move to further the reach and viability of clean energy infrastructure. Headquartered in Easton, Connecticut, NuPower has built a name developing projects that combine innovation with environmental responsibility. The sale aligns with NuPower’s goal to connect impactful projects with long-term operators who can fully realize their potential.

NuPower’s decision to transition the 9.6-megawatt project to Scale Microgrids, a company with expertise in deploying local energy solutions, signals a step forward for the renewable energy ecosystem in Bridgeport and beyond. “This project has been in development for 10 years. We appreciate the long and continued support from local and state stakeholders,” said Scott Guilmartin of NuPower.

The Role of Fuel Cell Technology

At the heart of the Bridgeport project lies fuel cell technology, an efficient and eco-friendly method of generating power. Unlike traditional combustion methods, fuel cells convert natural gas into hydrogen through an electrochemical process. This produces electricity without burning fuel, drastically reducing carbon emissions.

But that’s only half the story. The Bridgeport project features a thermal loop that captures waste heat from fuel cells, creating an innovative way to recycle energy. This 1.6-mile-long loop will provide heat and hot water to local facilities—including the University of Bridgeport, a high school, and various businesses. The technology promises dual benefits: lowering greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 8,000 tons annually and slashing energy costs for these community institutions.

What sets this project apart further is the involvement of HyAxiom, a leading fuel cell manufacturer based in South Windsor, Connecticut. HyAxiom will fabricate, install, and operate the fuel cells, which are model examples of how clean energy can bridge both efficiency and sustainability.

Partnerships and Financial Backing

Every significant energy project needs more than just technology; it needs strong financial and operational partners. The Bridgeport fuel cell project is no exception. Scale Microgrids will finance, construct, own, and operate the installation throughout its lifecycle. And they’re not doing it alone.

Debt financing for the project is provided by Investec Group, based in New York, and the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) of Tokyo, two global leaders in infrastructure finance. Adding tax equity financing to the mix is Foss & Co., a San Francisco-based firm with a strong track record of supporting innovative energy projects.

Together, this financial framework not only secures the project’s development but also underscores the growing investment appeal of clean energy solutions. Julian Torres, Scale’s chief investment officer, stated, “This project is a terrific opportunity to deploy innovative clean energy technology to drive economic, reliability, and sustainability outcomes in Bridgeport.”

Significance for Bridgeport

For the city of Bridgeport, this project is more than an energy initiative—it’s a game-changer. Locally produced, reliable electricity will strengthen the city’s energy resilience, while its thermal loop will add layers of sustainability for key facilities.

The project is already poised to impact the local economy, with an estimated 100 jobs created during its construction phase. Additionally, Scale Microgrids has prioritized awarding contracts to minority business enterprises (MBEs), reinforcing their commitment to community engagement and economic equity.

Beyond economics, this development places Bridgeport at the forefront of clean energy innovation. With this project being the largest of its kind for HyAxiom in the U.S., its completion could position Bridgeport as a model city for integrating cutting-edge renewable technology into urban infrastructure. Projects like this also strengthen Connecticut’s clean energy economy, aligning with broader state and national goals to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

And the story doesn’t end there. The Bridgeport installation may be expanded in the future, potentially broadening its impact to additional city facilities. Scale’s other ongoing projects in Connecticut, including municipal microgrids and battery energy systems, further cement their role as a key player in promoting sustainability throughout the region.

A Step Forward for Clean Energy

The sale of NuPower’s Bridgeport project to Scale Microgrids is a testament to what’s possible when innovation, collaboration, and community come together in the service of a cleaner future. By leveraging the unique capabilities of fuel cell technology and aligning with strong financial and operational partners, this project sets a robust example for urban sustainability.

Bridgeport is now on the cusp of becoming a clean energy hub, where state-of-the-art developments don’t just exist on paper but drive tangible benefits for its residents. With timelines for completion unfolding over the next several years, all eyes will be on how this collaboration transforms the promise of renewable energy into a working reality. For now, consider this deal a case study in what’s to come when ambition meets technological mastery.