Jan 21 2010
Renaissance Lighting announced its largest energy-saving lighting project at the University of Illinois’ Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. The company is proud to support the University’s sustainable energy project initiative. Renaissance Lighting is a leading manufacturer of energy-efficient solid-state LED luminaries.
Krannert Center’s lobby, the centerpiece of the solid-state LED project, has 25,000 square foot space and is shared by four separate concert and theater venues. This huge lobby has been illuminated by 625 energy-guzzling incandescent light fixtures for nearly 40 years. The total power consumed by the incandescent lights is about 573.8 million watts per annum.
Michael Williams, Krannert Center’s lighting director, said the energy-saving lighting initiative at the Krannert Center demonstrates the university’s commitment for the green movement. He further added that the luminaries from Renaissance Lighting enabled the university to achieve high energy efficiency as well as cost savings.
According to Williams, Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation has provided 50% of funding for the project. The university’s Student Sustainability Committee has funded the balance 50% for the project through a zero-interest loan for a period of seven years. The Student Sustainability Committee derives its income through a $2 clean energy fee paid by students every semester.
Barry Weinbaum, Renaissance Lighting CEO, said that its luminaries at the Krannert Center lobby ceiling will reduce energy consumption significantly by about 460 million watts per annum. He further said the longevity of the luminaries and energy cost savings will enable the Krannert Center to save more than $70,000 per annum. The luminaries from the company provides glare free, good light throw while eliminating “hot spots.”