OUR HISTORY
We began in 1977 as Operation Fuel, born out of a crisis that exposed deep gaps in energy access. In the wake of a global oil embargo, skyrocketing heating costs left many Connecticut households struggling, especially those who earned just enough to be excluded from government aid.
In response, a powerful coalition came together: faith leaders and industry leaders in banking, insurance, and utilities joined Governor Ella Grasso and Father Thomas Lynch to launch Operation Fuel. Our mission at that time was to provide critial support to those who did not qualify for government assistance and act as a safety net for working families facing energy insecurity.
1977
GOV. ELLA GRASSO
Established Operation Fuel to address home heating crisis,
impacting working families who did not qualify for fed/ state energy assistance.
1983
DIANE CASEY LEE
Add-a-Dollar program was written into law
as a collaboration between government officials, Operation Fuel, and utility companies.
2007
PAT WRICE
Launched Energy Affordability Gap Study:
The difference between what energy bills are and what people can afford.
2008
GOV. JODI RELL
Operation Fuel receives its first program infrastructure grant of $15 million.
2015
SBC
Operation Fuel receives $2.1 million allocation annually from rate payers in perpetuity.
2020
10% PURA FINES
Per the Take Back Our Grid Act of 2020, Operation Fuel was identified to receive minimally 10% of PURA fines.
2022
1st FED GRANT
Via the EPA, Operation Fuel received a grant to promote environmental health in local communities.
2025
REBRAND LAUNCH
Operation Fuel rebrands as Generation Power CT to meet the evolving needs of CT residents.
OUR JOURNEY FORWARD
What started as an emergency response has grown into a movement.
Today, as Generation Power CT, we honor the legacy of Operation Fuel while embracing a new mission: to lead the way so current and future generations can thrive with secure access to heat, power, and water. We’re evolving from crisis relief to sustainable solutions—empowering households, transforming systems, and lighting the path toward a more just and resilient Connecticut.
Until you’re there, you’ll never understand what people without heat go through. Nobody should have to go cold. I’m truly grateful, and I have 100% faith in the organization’s cause.” Judi, a Vernon resident whose furnace broke down