Oregon Convention Center installs new energy-efficient, programmable tower lights

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The Oregon Convention Center’s glass spires have been a famous feature of Portland’s skyline for 27 years, particularly when they light up at night. But keep an eye on them. Thanks to a recent lighting system upgrade, you will occasionally see the familiar green-white towers glow in a range of colors.

A new LED lighting system allows the convention center to customize the color and scheme of the tower lights to reflect the branding of an event happening inside, seasonal moods, or public observances. Pink lights for example could appear during national breast cancer month or red and blue lights on Independence Day.

The updated system will not only add some flair to the city's nighttime skyline and enhance the convention center's visitor experience; it will bring significant energy efficiencies and reduced maintenance costs as well.



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        Oregon Convention Center's new LED tower lighting system will consume less than half of the electricity used by the older fixtures.

"We've systematically replaced more than 75 percent of our interior lighting with more energy-efficient LED fixtures," said Matt Pizzuti, OCC deputy director. "We're excited to continue this building-wide effort to include our tower lights, which will also offer our clients some unique customization options for their events."

The center worked with Stantec Consultants to find products that would help meet its goals, and Bull Run Electric installed the new collection of LEDs. The project’s budget was $650,000 but the contract actually came in under budget at $499,921. A mix of 400 and 250-watt bulbs were removed and recycled from each tower.

"We reduced the number of fixtures in each tower from 72 to 38, and the overall wattage is considerably lower," said Matthew Uchtman, OCC Director of Operations. "The LED-based system’s electricity usage will be less than half of what the older fixtures consumed, so it is right in line with our commitment to sustainability and more efficient use of light and energy."

Soon the OCC will offer programming options to event clients interested in adding a dramatic touch to their attendee experience.

The Oregon Convention Center is owned by Metro and managed by the Metro Exposition and Recreation Commission. OCC is a LEED Platinum certified facility that hosts groups from around the world and brings millions of dollars into the Portland and Oregon economy.

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