Constellation is set to begin updating the more than 13,000 lighting fixtures at the World Trade Center through a $7.9 million energy savings contract with the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey.
The improvements are expected to help the Port Authority conserve roughly 6.4 million kilowatt hours of electricity and reduce carbon emissions by more than 4,700 metric tons annually, the equivalent of taking more than 1,000 passenger vehicles off the road, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates. The Port Authority is expected to save more than $715,000 in the first year with continued annual savings over the term of a 10-year contact.
“These improvements will enhance public spaces with improved light quality and state-of-the-art features that will accentuate the stunning architecture at the World Trade Center,” said Christine Weydig, Director of Office of Environmental and Energy Programs for the Port Authority. “In addition to contributing to a world-class experience for our visitors, this project will further the Port Authority’s sustainability commitments.”
The contract calls for more than 13,000 lighting fixtures to be upgraded to high-efficient LED technology, which reduces energy consumption and increases the life expectancy of the lamps. WTC sites to receive the upgrades include: Vehicle Security Center, Central Chiller Plant, PATH fare and platform area, Transportation Hub and back of house spaces.
Additionally, the “up lighting” in the Oculus, located between columns in the 800,000 square-foot facility, will be replaced with new red-green-blue spot lighting. Constellation will implement lighting controls that will enable WTC staff to display any desired color at their discretion.
“This project couples traditional lighting improvements with an innovative solution unique to the World Trade Center,” said Michael D. Smith, senior vice president, Distributed Energy, for Constellation. “These updates will help the Port Authority save money and reduce its carbon footprint while also providing new vibrant display lighting for the Oculus.”
Constellation has begun construction and the project is slated for completion by the end of 2019. Work in high-occupancy areas will take place during the evening to avoid disruption for the more than 250,000 commuters and visitors that frequent WTC Oculus daily.
The project will be implemented through the Port Authority’s Energy Savings Performance Guarantee Program. The program provides agency-wide available resources to identify, develop and implement energy efficiency and clean energy opportunities that effectively contribute to Port Authority’s greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals.
