Efficiency on Demand
With demand for energy-efficiency projects expected to climb by more than 35% over the next two years, an expanded training program from New Jersey Natural Gas couldn’t have come at a better time.
This spring, NJNG officially opened its new SAVEGREEN® Innovation and Training Annex in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey. The facility marks a major step forward in the company’s mission to drive energy efficiency and support workforce development throughout its service territory.
Partnering with Isles, Inc.—a Trenton-based nonprofit focused on community development and environmental health—NJNG is expanding its Workforce Development Program to deliver cutting-edge training in energy efficiency, equipment installation and building performance. Through Isles’ Center for Energy and Environmental Training, the program offers industry-recognized certifications and hands-on learning, creating a pipeline of skilled workers ready to meet the growing demand for high-efficiency solutions.
The program concentrates on adult learners and underemployed residents within NJNG’s service territory—with a focus on overburdened communities—providing free technical training and Building Performance Institute certification in partnership with CEET.
“This collaboration is an important step in advancing NJNG and Isles’ shared goals of fostering more sustainable communities, supporting economic development and driving innovation toward energy efficiency and lower emissions,” said Pat Migliaccio, NJNG chief operating officer.
The new Innovation and Training Annex isn’t just a classroom—it’s a showcase for the latest in high-efficiency natural gas equipment and technologies. It features New Jersey’s first installed Anesi gas heat pump, an innovative system designed to help lower emissions and improve energy performance. Trade professionals participating in the program receive hands-on training on this advanced system from Anesi, expanding their expertise and encouraging the adoption of next-generation solutions across the state.
“Isles’ CEET looks forward to this collaboration with NJNG as we expand our training services,” said Andre Thomas, director of training and support at Isles. “We share a common goal of ensuring we train a workforce to provide quality services to New Jersey residents, making their homes more comfortable and energy efficient.”
Since its launch in 2009, NJNG’s SAVEGREEN program has helped more than 100,000 customers improve their energy efficiency. The enhanced Workforce Development Program builds on that commitment.
Participants can pursue certification across three key areas: Building Science Principles, Building Analyst Technician and Building Analyst Professional. These skills open doors to careers in home performance services, energy diagnostics and whole-home efficiency evaluations.
“The transition to a low-carbon future requires a skilled workforce,” Migliaccio added. “This investment in our communities not only supports economic growth for individuals and contractors but also empowers customers with cost-saving, sustainable energy solutions.”
As NJNG continues to integrate new technologies and training opportunities, the SAVEGREEN Innovation and Training Annex serves as a model for how utilities can partner with community organizations to deliver tangible, lasting benefits.
