Oregon Convention Center Plans Large Rooftop Solar Panel Array

July 16, 2015

The Oregon Convention Center plant to install what is anticipated to be the largest solar array on a convention center in the U.S.

More than 6,500 rooftop solar panels are expected to produce 25 percent of the facility’s electricity.

Construction of the two megawatt project is scheduled to begin in August and the system is estimated to be in service this fall.

“One of our core values is sustainability,” said Convention Center Executive Director Scott Cruickshank. “The rooftop solar installation will help us meet our carbon emission reduction goals, offset utility costs and provide an important learning opportunity for our convention center visitors and guests.”

The solar installation will be constructed and operated by SolarCity, which was awarded the project through a competitive bidding process.

“I want to personally thank our partners at Pacific Power Blue Sky SM renewable energy program and Energy Trust of Oregon for supporting this installation,” Cruickshank added. “Their financial support made it possible to expand the original project scope of 1.1 MW to 2.0 MW, with no upfront costs borne by the facility or the taxpayers.” 

Funding for the collaborative project includes a $500,000 grant from customers of Pacific Power’s Blue Sky TM renewable energy program. In addition, Energy Trust of Oregon will provide a $200,000 incentive for installation when complete.

“We’re proud to be a part of this special collaboration on such an important city landmark that will be seen by millions of residents and visitors a year,” said Valerie Smith, director of customer service for Pacific Power. “It’s the largest solar project Blue Sky customers have helped fund and it comes as we mark the 15th year of the Blue Sky program.”

Margie Harris, executive director of Energy Trust, added, “Energy Trust and the Oregon Convention Center have been actively working together on multiple energy-efficiency upgrades to the facility over several years. These efficiency investments have significantly reduced the building’s energy use and will enable the solar system to generate a larger percentage of the building’s overall energy needs.”

In its first 20 years of operation, the rooftop solar system is estimated to generate enough energy to power approximately 184 Portland homes each year. 

“The Oregon Convention Center has long been a leader in energy efficiency and has now taken that a step further with this solar system on their roof to offset a significant portion of their total electrical use,” said Kip Barrett, senior project development manager for SolarCity. “The solar electricity generated on OCC’s roof creates no emissions or pollution and is projected to lower the venue’s operating costs—this is the future of energy.”

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Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact