State asks public to weigh in on Conn. energy plan

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is asking the public to weigh in on how Connecticut can improve its use of energy.

The agency has scheduled its first public hearing on a draft energy strategy at Bridgeport City Hall on Wednesday.

State legislation enacted last year requires officials to develop an energy plan every three years.

The draft plan analyzes the state's energy use and identifies how to improve efficiency in heating, air conditioning and other building systems and appliances. It also calls for economic incentives such as subsidies and power purchase agreements to reduce the cost of renewable electricity and promotes housing and retail construction near mass transit to reduce automobile use and encourages bikeways and walking paths.

The state plan also considers financing to promote gas heat at residences and businesses.