Torus, a leader in smart energy storage solutions, and First Colony Mortgage (FCM), one of the nation’s fastest-growing mortgage banks, have announced a groundbreaking partnership to develop Utah’s largest residential clean energy community. This innovative project will feature advanced solar and battery storage systems across 650 newly built homes, making sustainable living more accessible through a combination of cutting-edge energy technology and integrated mortgage financing.
At the heart of this initiative is the Torus Neighborhood program, which introduces a hybrid energy model that blends individual home battery systems with community-scale energy infrastructure. Each home in the development will be equipped with a Torus battery and solar panel system, while residents will also have access to a shared centralized solar array and a large-scale energy storage facility. This integrated approach significantly reduces costs compared to traditional individual solar installations, while also enhancing grid stability and promoting energy independence. Available exclusively through approved residential developments, the program is designed to bring the benefits of clean energy to a broader range of homeowners.
A key aspect of this project is its collaboration with Rocky Mountain Power’s Wattsmart Battery program, positioning the community as a model for grid modernization in Utah. By demonstrating how utilities, technology providers, and financial institutions can work together, the initiative accelerates the adoption of sustainable energy solutions without compromising grid reliability. The program’s shared infrastructure approach ensures that energy resources are used more efficiently, reducing strain on the grid while providing homeowners with reliable backup power and increased energy independence.
Nate Walkingshaw, Torus CEO and co-founder, said in a statement, “This partnership marks a pivotal moment in our mission to transform how communities generate, store, and share energy. By combining our innovative energy technology with First Colony’s extensive builder relationships and mortgage expertise, we’re creating new opportunities for homeowners to own their power while contributing to a more resilient energy grid.”
Corey Shelley, Owner and Chairman of First Colony Mortgage, mentioned, “For nearly 40 years, First Colony Mortgage has been committed to making homeownership accessible to more Americans. This partnership with Torus represents the next evolution of that commitment. By working closely with our extensive network of builders, we’re not just financing homes – we’re helping create sustainable communities that offer homeowners true energy independence and long-term value.”
The partnership also delivers substantial financial benefits to homebuyers through streamlined financing options. By integrating energy infrastructure costs directly into traditional mortgage financing, buyers can access affordable, long-term clean energy solutions without significant upfront investment. Additionally, participants in the program qualify for local and federal clean energy incentives, including those offered through Rocky Mountain Power’s Wattsmart Battery program, further lowering costs.
Carine Clark, CEO of First Colony Mortgage, stated, “Our collaboration with Torus represents a unique convergence of award-winning technology and mortgage banking expertise. Through our long-standing builder partnerships, we’re making it easier for homeowners to move into homes that are ready for the future of energy. This initiative demonstrates Utah’s leadership in bringing innovative energy solutions to homeowners while working alongside traditional power providers to improve grid reliability and consumer choice.”
Beyond individual savings, the community-scale model enhances energy efficiency through shared resources and coordinated demand response programs. Homeowners gain access to reliable backup power while also contributing to broader grid stability efforts. Moreover, the integrated demand response capabilities allow the community to participate in grid services, creating additional value for homeowners and supporting long-term energy sustainability.
By combining advanced technology with innovative financing solutions, Torus and First Colony Mortgage are setting a new standard for residential clean energy communities. This first-of-its-kind initiative demonstrates how collaboration between utilities, energy technology providers, and financial institutions can make sustainable living more accessible while driving the future of energy independence in Utah.
