Office Lighting Retrofit to Save Energy and Operating Costs, Improve Light Quality

Reno’s San Diego corporate office was upgraded in May with high efficiency lighting to reduce energy consumption and operating costs, while improving the quality of light to employees. The retrofit covered 15,000 sq. ft. of office space, including 90 light fixtures.

“Energy efficiency is not only part of Reno’s services to clients, it is ingrained in our standard operations,” said Walt Fegley, President, Reno Contracting. “Our recent upgrade to high-efficiency lighting is the latest example of Reno’s commitment to best practices in the new sustainable economy.”

Last year Reno’s jobsite trailer was the first and only structure of its kind to achieve LEED® Certification for its use of recycled materials and energy efficiency systems. In addition, as a matter of practice, the firm recycles at least 50%, and averages 72%, of construction and demolition material from its construction projects.

“Enhancing the performance of buildings not only helps the environment, it also saves costs,” added Fegley. “Reno’s lighting retrofit will pay for itself in energy savings in less than six months, and the new light fixtures’ natural white light output improves the work place for employees.”

Natures Environmental Lights subcontracted on the week-long lighting retrofit project.

Company Cited For Environmental Stewardship By Associated General Contractors, San Diego Chapter

Reno is this year’s recipient of the Environmental Stewardship in Construction Award from the San Diego Chapter of the Associated General Contractors (AGC).

“We recognize the necessity of sustainable building practices in all our daily functions, be it job-site related, in the office or elsewhere,” said Reno Contracting President Walt Fegley. “It’s a focus that supports our continued success while minimizing impact on the environment.”

He added: “The use of recycled materials, the promotion of alternative energy, the study of high performance buildings and systems are cornerstones of our company, now and into the future. To be recognized by our peers for our commitment to best practices in the new sustainable economy is the highest compliment.”

The Environmental Stewardship in Construction Award is based on several criteria, including: how a firm utilizes sustainable practices and procedures in its daily business; its involvement in community activities that encourage sustainable practices; and environmental-related employee training procedures.

It is standard practice for Reno construction projects to recycle at least 50% of construction and demolition while averaging 72%. All jobsites have recycle bins, with money generated from recyclables given to charity.

The company also built and utilizes a unique LEED Certified construction trailer that has recycled glass countertops, flooring made from recycled rubber tires and is insulated with repurposed denim. In the office lunchroom, recycling bins are maintained for bottles and cans, and paper recycling bins are located throughout. The office lighting control system works on motion sensors.

Reno has also been at the forefront of embracing sustainable practices and sharing how they relate to the construction industry with employees as well as the local developers and brokers that are its clients. The company continually supports all of its employees through in-house LEED workshops, annual California Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan training, and solar power seminars.