CL&P continues to voluntary reduce the use of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in transformers and other oil-filled equipment. Transformers in vaults, schools, residences and other locations have been replaced, where necessary, to minimize spill risks. An effort is currently underway to identify and address de-energized transformers.

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection offers environmental workshops and instructional materials that are available to teachers and youth group leaders.

CL&P has earned ISO 14001 (International Organization for Standardization) certification at all of its facilities. ISO 14001 is an internationally accepted standard that acts as a guideline for improving environmental performance. This certification is a tribute to the high standards, expectations and commitment to environmental stewardship that we have built across the CL&P organization.

CL&P adheres to all environmental standards for pest management techniques and for trimming vegetation around our poles and wires to reduce the occurrence of power outages. Much of the wood and brush is recycled.

CL&P also manages more than 1,500 miles of transmission rights-of-way in Connecticut. These corridors provide ideal habitat for a wide variety of native New England wildlife. Our award-winning maintenance programs focus on promoting low-growing native plant species. Studies performed in our rights-of-way have shown that these techniques have a positive impact on rare and threatened species of birds, butterflies, mammals and reptiles.

CL&P reduces the amount of materials disposed in landfills by recycling fluorescent lamps and ballasts; office paper and cardboard; and scrap metal, including cable and wire. In 2007, CL&P’s reuse of transformers resulted in avoided disposal of 300 tons of scrap metal. In addition, more than 250 tons of office paper and cardboard, and 37 tons of wood reels were recycled.

CL&P, through its parent company, Northeast Utilities, is involved in a number of innovative environmental programs:

The Connecticut Audubon Eagle Festival is an annual event dedicated to the wintering of bald eagles along the Connecticut River. There is no better way to learn about some of New England's most precious natural resources.

CL&P’s 1,500 miles of rights-of-way require careful management using state-of-the-art techniques to create stable, diverse plant communities. Studies have shown that wildlife thrives in these habitats. Our efforts towards managing our rights-of-way and enhancing a wildlife habitat have received national recognition.

The Environmental Community Grant Program provides seed money to local organizations that sponsor activities fostering environmental preservation, improvement or education.

Northeast Utilities is a corporate member of the Connecticut Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership, which leverages corporate, government and public contributions to protect and restore freshwater and coastal wetlands. Recent projects funded by Northeast Utilities include Ed Bills Pond in Old Lyme and Pond Lily Dam in New Haven.