Phoenix CC Goes Solar
Staff -- Tradeshow Week, 5/12/2008
Phoenix is not only in the midst of getting a new and improved convention center, it's also getting a greener one. The Phoenix Convention Center's West Building, completed in 2006 as part of Phase I, is currently being outfitted with 20,000 square feet of solar panels that will cover about two-thirds of its 2-acre roof.
When completed, the photovoltaic system using the solar panels will generate 150,000 kilowatts of energy each year, enough to power 12 to 14 Phoenix homes. The $850,000 solar energy generating facility is one of several initiatives that have been submitted to the U.S. Green Building Council in hopes of being awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.
The second phase of construction for the convention center expansion is expected to be completed in December. When done, the Phoenix CC will have 688,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space and 215,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.
Already booked for May 2009 is the NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits. The annual Natl. Rifle Assn. show is expected to have a 138,000 sq. ft. showfloor and draw 50,000 professional attendees.
