Old Firehouses, New Energy: How PSE&G's Direct Install Program Is Transforming Newark's Firehouses
Key Highlights
- ➤Newark upgraded 14 aging firehouses through PSE&G’s Direct Install Program
- ➤$4.5 million project receives PSE&G incentives covering nearly 17% of total cost
- ➤Upgrades expected to save nearly $50,000 annually in utility costs
- ➤Energy use expected to fall by over 225,000 kWh and 24,000 therms annually
- ➤Newark will repay the remaining balance interest-free over five years
Expert Statements
Juba Dowdell, Deputy Coordinator for Newark’s Office of Emergency Management, Homeland Security and Preparedness
“Knowing how much our firefighters put on the line, the city was committed to taking care of them by addressing these issues.”
Del Ortiz, Fire Chief of the Newark Fire Division
“The savings allow us to invest in other equipment we need in the fire department, whether that’s gear, safety equipment or apparatus.”
Del Ortiz, Fire Chief of the Newark Fire Division
“It’s important that we invest in the places where our first responders live and work. The buildings and apparatus are important, but our first responders and the community we respond to are our most important assets.”
Joseph Conte, Community Relations Captain with the Newark Fire Division
“Having the firehouses better lit is great for the safety of the firefighters returning from calls and for residents passing by.”
Joseph Conte, Community Relations Captain with the Newark Fire Division
“It also provides a well-lit place for people to recognize as an area to go when they need help.”
Juba Dowdell, Deputy Coordinator for Newark’s Office of Emergency Management, Homeland Security and Preparedness
“You have our backs, and we have yours.”
Juba Dowdell, Deputy Coordinator for Newark’s Office of Emergency Management, Homeland Security and Preparedness
“The Direct Install Program is a wonderful opportunity for any fire department, recreation department, police department ... anybody with old infrastructure that needs to be upgraded, this is the program for you.”
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / November 2, 2026 / Originally published on PSEG ENERGIZE! (link)
Every day, Newark's 650 firefighters walk toward the danger everyone else runs from. Across 16 engine companies, eight ladder companies, two rescue companies and a special operations unit, they respond to more than 16,720 calls a year - from fires and medical emergencies to every kind of hazard in between.
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