UI, CNG, and SCG Lead the Conversation on Strengthening Resiliency of Connecticut’s Energy Infrastructure
At companies’ first-ever Resiliency Summit, industry leaders, economic and environmental experts, and union representatives discuss opportunities to improve energy reliability and durability in wake of stronger storms, flood risk.
UI President and CEO Frank Reynolds addresses the attendees of today’s Resiliency Summit.
ORANGE, Conn. — June 17, 2025 — Today, United Illuminating (UI), Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc., hosted a high-impact series of panel discussions on energy resiliency, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening infrastructure and ensuring long-term reliability across Connecticut. The event, which brought together more than 120 attendees representing more than 60 organizations, provided panelists and attendees the opportunity to discuss how both state and company policies to increase energy resiliency – such as demand response, energy efficiency, pilot programs, and more – are benefitting residential and commercial customers across the state.
“Resiliency is embedded in every decision we make at UI, CNG, and SCG,” said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of UI, CNG, and SCG. “Whether we’re upgrading substations, piloting new technologies, or partnering with our communities, our goal is to build energy systems that can adapt and thrive under any condition. Today’s event reflects our commitment to long-term energy strength—one rooted in innovation, preparedness, and the well-being of our customers and employees.”
At the Resiliency Summit, panelists and attendees listened to and participated in a series of conversations, including:
- Avangrid’s commitment to climate resiliency, community resilience, and collaborative efforts with state leaders;
- How to quantitatively measure and assess resiliency; and
- How energy efficiency projects, battery storage projects, flood walls, planning pilots, and more support the resiliency of the grid.
Participants also had the opportunity to ask questions of panelists and discuss challenges and potential solutions with organizations and experts in attendance. A diverse audience of more than 120 attendees participated in the Resiliency Summit, including representatives from economic development groups such as the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce and the Bridgeport Regional Business Council as well as key leaders from environmental organizations like Connecticut Green Bank and Efficiency for All. Together, these stakeholders emphasized the importance of long-term strategies that strengthen communities and protect natural resources. Additionally, voices from organized labor—including Ed Hawthorne, President of the Connecticut AFL-CIO—contributed essential perspectives on workforce development and operational strength.
“In today’s rapidly shifting environment, resilience isn’t optional—it’s essential,” said Ted Novicki, Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs at UI, CNG, and SCG. “With more frequent and intense weather events, we face new and complex challenges that demand innovative thinking and stronger local partnerships. Avangrid stands ready to support the communities we serve—with the tools, expertise, and collaboration needed to adapt, respond, and thrive.”
From expanding partnerships with municipalities and nonprofits to launching customer-focused programs, UI, CNG, and SCG have embedded resilience into every layer of their operations. As part of their longstanding commitment to strengthening communities and energy systems, the companies have driven economic development through strategic investments, such as grid modernization projects, workforce training, and outreach efforts. Most recently, they supported more than 3,400 customers in 2024 alone, through programs ranging from emergency preparedness trainings to enhanced billing transparency and small business assistance. These efforts all contribute to a more reliable, affordable, and adaptable energy future for Connecticut.