Energy Efficient Upgrades Help Historical New York Theater Save Big

The Stanley Theater creates the perfect atmosphere with its dozens of small sconces and several chandeliers. But with all those lighting fixtures comes a costly electric bill, which the theater was having a hard time affording. The theater wanted to pursue energy efficient upgrades to help lower utility costs.

“We’re taking the old [bulbs] out, not efficient and costly, putting in the brand new LED lights to help save some money here to keep the Stanley Theater open,” said theater Executive Director Jerry Kraus.

The theater was able to acquire a $12,000 incentive from National Grid, along with a $2,000 plus donation from Donna Donovan, a board member. Nearly 800 new LED light bulbs, costing about $15 a piece, were purchased to replace the current lighting in the lobby, main staircases and dressing rooms.

The transition to LED was not an easy process. Dozens of LED bulbs were tested, hoping to find the right combination of shape, color and output.

“They throw out the same amount of light, but they save us about 80 percent in energy cost, what great opportunity for us,” said Kraus.

The lighting project was just the first phase of the Stanley’s going-green lighting project. Replacing the bulbs in the theater and backstage are the next phases.

“We need to save money here. Not only bringing in more shows and increasing our revenue, but cutting our expenses and this is a great way to start by going green at the same time,” Kraus said.

The theater chose LED light bulbs for many other reasons as well. They last much longer, many years in fact, and give off less heat, which will subsequently reduce the amount of air conditioning needed throughout the theater, particularly in the dressing rooms.

To learn what energy efficient options are available for your business or facility, call our offices today at 913.310.0705.  There are numerous ways to start saving money and have a positive impact on the environment at the same time.

Source: TWC News