Understanding Connecticut HVAC regulatory oversight is essential for contractors, businesses, and homeowners navigating the state's energy landscape. Connecticut's regulatory environment involves multiple agencies overseeing utility rates, contractor licensing, and energy policy, with one of the most comprehensive HVAC licensing systems in the nation. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Connecticut HVAC regulations heading into 2026.
The regulatory oversight framework in Connecticut affects how HVAC contractors operate, what utility rates consumers pay, and how energy infrastructure develops across the state. Whether you're an HVAC contractor seeking licensure or a business evaluating Connecticut's energy market, understanding these regulatory structures is critical for success.
Public Utilities Regulatory Authority: Primary Regulatory Oversight
The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) serves as the primary regulatory body for Connecticut's utilities. PURA regulates the rates and services of Connecticut's investor-owned electricity, natural gas, water, and telecommunications companies.
PURA consists of three commissioners appointed by the Governor with approval from the General Assembly. The agency ensures utilities provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective service while balancing ratepayer interests with utility financial health.
Agency: Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA)
Address: 10 Franklin Square, New Britain, CT 06051
Phone: (860) 827-1553
Website: https://portal.ct.gov/pura
Connecticut HVAC Licensing Requirements for 2026
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) governs all HVAC licensing in Connecticut. Connecticut has one of the most comprehensive HVAC licensing systems in the United States, requiring licensure at every level from apprentice through contractor.
Connecticut offers over 20 different HVAC-related license types organized into three categories: Apprentice, Journeyperson, and Contractor. Each category has both Limited and Unlimited options.
Primary HVAC License Types in Connecticut
S-1 Unlimited Heating, Piping, and Cooling Contractor: Allows all heating, piping, and cooling work. Requires 2 years as a licensed journeyperson.
S-2 Unlimited Heating, Piping, and Cooling Journeyperson: Allows all heating, piping, and cooling work while employed by a licensed contractor. Requires completion of apprenticeship or equivalent.
D-1 Limited Warm Air, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor: Covers warm air, AC, and refrigeration systems. Does not include oil burner work.
D-2 Limited Warm Air, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Journeyperson: Same scope as D-1, while employed by a licensed contractor.
Additional specialty licenses include: S-3/S-4 (Limited Heating, Piping, Cooling), S-5/S-6 (Limited Heating, Hot Water, Steam), G-1/G-2 (Gas Piping), B-1/B-2 (Oil/Gas Burner), and others.
Pathways to Connecticut HVAC Licensure
Apprentice: Must enroll in a four-year program with 720 hours of instruction and 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. Register with Connecticut DCP and the Connecticut Office of Apprenticeship Training. Work only under licensed journeyperson or contractor supervision.
Journeyperson: Must complete a registered apprenticeship program or demonstrate equivalent experience and training. Pass the trade examination (70% minimum). Work only under a licensed contractor.
Contractor: Must have two years as a licensed journeyperson or equivalent. Pass both the trade examination and the Business & Law examination. Can employ journeypersons and apprentices.
HVAC License Fees and Requirements
The following fees apply to Connecticut HVAC licensing in 2026:
Journeyperson Application Fee: $90
Journeyperson Initial License Fee: $120
Contractor Application Fee: $150
Contractor Initial License Fee: $150
Annual Renewal (Journeyperson): $120
Annual Renewal (Contractor): $150
All licenses expire: August 31st annually
Exams are administered by PSI Testing Services. The S-1 Unlimited Contractor exam has 80 questions with a 3-hour time limit. The S-2 Journeyperson exam has 70 questions with a 2.5-hour time limit. A Business & Law exam (50 questions, 2 hours) is required for all contractor licenses.
Agency: Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
Division: Occupational & Professional Licensing
Address: 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106-1630
Phone: (860) 713-6135
Website: https://portal.ct.gov/dcp
Reciprocal HVAC Licensing Agreements
Contact the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection for information on reciprocity with other states. Connecticut evaluates out-of-state credentials on a case-by-case basis.
Directory of Connecticut Electric Companies
Connecticut Investor-Owned Utilities
| Company Name | Website | Utility Type |
|---|---|---|
| Eversource Energy | eversource.com | Investor-Owned |
| United Illuminating (UI) | uinet.com | Investor-Owned |
Connecticut Municipal Utilities
| Company Name | Website | Utility Type |
|---|---|---|
| Bozrah Light & Power | bozrahlight.com | Municipal |
| Groton Utilities | grotonutilities.com | Municipal |
| Jewett City Department of Public Utilities | jewettcity.com | Municipal |
| Norwich Public Utilities | norwichpublicutilities.com | Municipal |
| South Norwalk Electric and Water | snew.org | Municipal |
| Wallingford Electric Division | wallingfordelectric.com | Municipal |
