Editor’s Note: In our recent podcast interview with Lori Cunniff, this project is heavily discussed – listen here.

Center strengthens commitment to environmental change

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 18, 2009) – The Orange County Convention Center, in partnership with OUC—The Reliable One, was awarded a $2.5 million grant from the state of Florida to be used, along with other funding sources, to install a one-megawatt rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system.  The largest PV system of its kind in the southeastern United States, the solar panel project will be complete and celebrated on May 20, 2009, during the general session of the Green Cities Florida 2009 conference at the Center.

In addition to the grant, OUC is contributing $1.5 million to the project and will receive 10 years worth of Renewable Energy Credits in that amount. The PV system will utilize high-efficiency, flat-plate collectors, expected to occupy approximately 200,000 square feet of roof space on the North/South Building.  The one-megawatt solar PV system will generate 1,300 to 1,500 megawatt hours of electricity per year, which is equivalent to the power used by 80 to 100 typical homes, and it will do so without producing any greenhouse gas emissions.  The benefits of generating electricity with solar energy include reducing energy costs, while helping to reduce global warming and dependence on foreign fuels.

This $8.8 million multi-purpose project also features a Climate-Change Education Center (CCEC) inside the Convention Center to promote the many environmental and economic benefits of solar and other renewable-energy technologies.  A grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the CCEC will be held during an evening reception on the first day of the Green Cities Florida 2009 conference on May 19, 2009.

The OCCC has become an industry leader in environmental best practices, beginning in early 2007 when it became the first convention center in the U.S. to become ISO 14001 Certified for its recycling program.  Other green projects at the Center include purchasing recycled products, using reclaimed water for landscaping irrigation, installing Xeriscape plantings, using Green-Seal certified cleaning products and installing waterless urinals and low-flow faucets, to name a few.  In addition to its facility-related green initiatives, the OCCC works closely with event organizers to support their efforts for green events, shows and meetings.

[ Read press release ]