Fuel cell park in Bridgeport moves forward

The deal announced Friday means a 15-megawatt fuel cell park will be built in Bridgeport by the end of 2013. The park is expected to generate enough power for 15,000 homes.

The deal's terms include an agreement by Dominion to pay $250,000 annually in taxes for the next 17 years.

The fuel cells convert natural gas to hydrogen, which is then made into electricity and heat with no combustion and very little pollution.

Officials say the project will create 161 jobs, including construction work and jobs at the Torrington facility of the fuel cell manufacturer, FuelCell Energy.

Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch called the project "transformative" for the city.

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