Mart A Leader With Energy-Saving Moves

When the world’s largest commercial building undertakes a green transformation, it’s no small task, and a very big deal.

In the fall of 2007, the Merchandise Mart, obtained the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Existing Building (LEED-EB) Silver certification, making it the largest LEED-certified building in the world.

To earn LEED certification, a building must meet certain prerequisites and performance criterion within five key areas of green building strategies: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials and resources and indoor environmental quality.

In the area of energy efficiency, the Mart partnered with an outside firm to conduct an energy audit to provide a roadmap for ongoing energy-saving efforts that continue today. The building has embraced a blend of conservation measures, which involve reducing use, and efficiency measures, which mean using less energy to achieve the same result.

Early on, Neff of Chicago was involved in testing the effectiveness and validity of energy-saving tactics for Mart showrooms. When the engineering VP approached Neff’ of Chicago’s Pat Borg with an “idea” to test, he immediately agreed to try it out.

“It worked out perfect,“ Borg says. Neff of Chicago switched from 100 watt bulbs to 15 watt, which he notes, represented “a dramatic change.” Borg was initially concerned that the presentation of his detailed cabinetry might be compromised by a reduction in lighting, but he was pleasantly surprised to find his concerns were unfounded. Rather than diminish the appeal of Neff of Chicago products, the new lighting “really enhanced it.” 

And, then there were the savings. About two months into the trial, Borg saw a real reduction in terms of his energy costs. In the summer months, Neff of Chicago discovered another plus. The showroom was noticeably cooler than it had previously been. 

What has turned into a positive for Neff of Chicago has also proven to be a win-win for all Mart occupants. In past two years, the building has reduced energy use for the entire property by almost 12%, and by almost 25% in the common areas. Listen to how they did it.