Mizzen Capital owner discusses Reigate's future and efficiency upgrades

The Vermont House Energy and Digital Infrastructure meeting on May 21, 2025, focused on a proposed Senate amendment regarding the future of Rygate, a local energy facility. The discussion centered around a potential one-year extension for the plant, which has recently undergone ownership changes.

Dan, a representative from Mizzen Capital, the new owner of Rygate, explained that his company specializes in providing loans to small businesses that contribute positively to their communities. He highlighted that Mizzen Capital acquired Rygate after the previous operators faced operational challenges. This transition aims to revitalize the plant, which is crucial for local energy production.

Dan emphasized the importance of a significant efficiency upgrade at the facility, which has been a goal for the past two years. He noted that achieving a 50% increase in efficiency is a complex task, requiring substantial investment in advanced technology. The previous management had made commendable efforts to secure state-of-the-art equipment from Europe, but the upgrade remains a work in progress.

The meeting underscored the community's reliance on Rygate for energy and the potential benefits of the proposed extension, as the new ownership seeks to enhance operational efficiency without altering existing power purchase agreements. The discussions reflect ongoing efforts to ensure the plant's sustainability and its role in supporting local energy needs.