Phoenix Convention Center

Phoenix, Arizona

Home of the largest green building conference in the world; USGBC’s Greenbuild 2009, the 630,000 SF expansion of the Phoenix Convention Center was the largest LEED-NC project in Arizona when certified. It was also the first phase of a project that totals over two million square feet of exhibition, conference, meeting and administration space. The convention center features four new levels including a 90 foot atrium creating abundant daylighting and views, in addition to high-performance envelope, mechanical, and lighting control systems. The City of Phoenix and the State of Arizona benefit by marketing a LEED certified convention center and also from realizing the lower operations and maintenance costs expected over the life of this high-performance, sustainable facility.

Sustainable Strategies

• Energy Star compliant roofing was used to reduce the Urban Heat Island effect and increase energy efficiency

• Air Quality Sensors notify the building control system if CO2 levels are too high or if filters need changing

• 300,000 tons of construction waste was diverted from landfills and recycled

• Interior materials (paints, adhesives, sealants, and carpets) that have low or zero volatile organic compounds were selected

• Comprehensive recycling programs and green cleaning programs minimize ongoing environmental impacts

Project Results

• LEED for New Construction SILVER level achieved

• 42% energy cost savings above ASHRAE 90.1-1999 energy standard

• 56% savings of potable water use for irrigation

• 42% savings of potable water for domestic uses

• 99% of construction waste was diverted from the landfill