Owners Developers & Managers
Steven J. King
Every day, more than 15,000 people come to work at over 260 companies across the Quonset Business Park. We know that those companies are looking for more than just a physical place to do business — they’re looking for partners who can help them operate more efficiently and profitably. My team at QDC offers that support, in part, through our long-standing partnership with Rhode Island Energy.
For more than five years, our collaboration has helped Quonset businesses significantly reduce operating costs while advancing their sustainability goals. We’re glad to highlight our program extension, which continues our partnership with Rhode Island Energy into 2028.
To date, Rhode Island Energy has invested more than $7 million in energy efficiency projects across Quonset facilities. That investment has translated into real, measurable results: more than $5 million in annual energy cost savings for businesses of all sizes, backed up by over 26 million kilowatt-hours of electricity saved and over 350,000 therms of reduced natural gas usage. These savings go directly to the companies’ bottom line, freeing up resources to be reinvested in growth, workforce development and innovation.
Rhode Island Energy provides financial incentives and technical expertise to help Quonset businesses identify and implement efficiency measures. That can mean upgrading lighting and HVAC systems, improving compressed air systems or optimizing building controls. Energy efficiency isn’t a one-time upgrade — it’s an ongoing process. Companies that have participated in the past are encouraged to reconnect to learn about new technologies and program offerings.
We’ve seen firsthand how impactful this support can be. Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Division, which operates a 120,000 s/f facility at Quonset, has partnered with Rhode Island Energy on multiple efficiency upgrades, including LED lighting and advanced compressed air systems. These improvements have enhanced performance, extended equipment life and saved the company more than $15,000 annually on electricity.
Smaller businesses are benefiting as well. Wide World of Indoor Sports, a climate-controlled athletic facility in Quonset’s Gateway District, worked with Rhode Island Energy to upgrade lighting and HVAC systems. Their partnership resulted in improved comfort for athletes and spectators and more than $34,500 in annual energy cost savings.
At Quonset, we’re proud to be the region’s leading engine for economic growth, and efficient infrastructure and strong partnerships help create the climate for that success. Our collaboration with Rhode Island Energy is a powerful example of why Quonset Business Park is not just a place to do business, but a place where businesses thrive. To join us, visit quonset.com/leasing.
Steven J. King, P.E. is the managing director of the Quonset Development Corp., North Kingstown, R.I.