This ultra clean combined cooling, heating and power system also will enable the high school to double as an emergency shelter by having an on-site power source capable of grid-independent operation.

UTC Power PureComfort(R) systems are extremely energy efficient. They can achieve an overall energy utilization of up to 90 percent -- far greater than the 33 percent typical of the electrical grid. These systems also reduce a customer's carbon footprint because of their higher fuel utilizations and the use of natural gas to generate electricity, rather than coal or oil.

The system's design also ensures a reduction in pollutant emissions such as smog-forming nitrogen oxides, and there are no ozone-depleting refrigerants. Compared with generating power from the grid, the system will save more than 2.5 million gallons of water annually, nearly enough water to fill four Olympic-sized swimming pools.

According to Mark Deming, director of Facilities for the Branford School District, "The UTC Power system was the sensible choice for us; it can provide power, cooling and heating simultaneously in a clean, green, efficient manner. Plus, we know we can count on having backup power if there's a grid failure."

The UTC Power system will be the first in the state to provide simultaneous heating and cooling, with no seasonal changeover required, using the hot exhaust from its natural gas-fired microturbines to drive a double-effect absorption chiller. The system will lower the high school's energy bills and provide positive cash flow for the school district.

United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides high-technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries. Its UTC Power unit in South Windsor, Conn., is a full-service provider of environmentally advanced power solutions. UTC Power is a world leader with nearly 50 years experience in developing and producing fuel cells for on-site power, transportation, space and defense applications, as well as a leader in innovative renewable energy solutions and combined cooling, heating and power solutions for the distributed energy market.

The mission of the Branford Public Schools is to develop life-long learners who are capable and confident, who contribute to their community, and who succeed in a changing global society.