360 State Street, an innovative new apartment building in New Haven, Connecticut, opens to residents next week, marking the opening of the largest fuel cell installation in a residential application. This mixed-use building was developed by Becker+Becker, a combined architecture and development firm based in Connecticut, and it is filling a startling need for apartments in the city of New Haven. The fuel cell is a 400 kW model from UTC Power, and it is expected to provide all of the heating needs for the entire, 500-unit apartment building in addition to its primary function of electricity generation. Utility bills for 360 State Street are expected to be half of the amount of those for standard apartments. Bruce Becker, president of Becker+Becker, is optimistic about the future of fuel cells in this type of application. “I think fuel cells will be an increasingly important technology for the multifamily housing industry, as building owners, investors and tenants realize the economic and environmental benefits they offer.”

The building has been awarded Connecticut’s first LEED-ND Platinum certification, and it has many additional energy-saving features including high-efficiency lighting, EnergyStar appliances, and recycled construction materials. High-performance windows and low-VOC paints and finishes were used to further curb the building’s impact on the environment. Residents will also be able to track their energy consumption online.

This project brings green living to the city with its on-site generation and efficient design. The chic, modern, and luxurious apartments prove that style and comfort do not have to be sacrificed in order to live in a more environmentally-responsible manner. The building has several amenities, such as a rooftop terrace, fitness center, library, screening room, and clubhouse. Additionally, retail space has been set aside on the first floor of the building for a bike shop and a grocery store. The building also inspires greener living through its proximity to public transit, and it is within walking distance to many shops and restaurants.

For more information on these cutting-edge apartments, please visit the 360 State Street website here.

Becker+Becker also developed The Octagon apartment building on Roosevelt Island, New York, and another fuel cell system is expected to be installed there in the near future. A video about The Octagon’s history and energy consumption can be viewed here.