Idaho State University to receive $220,000 Energy Incentive Rebate from Idaho Power

Earlier this year, the Holt Arena underwent a $536,000 lighting upgrade, replacing two older lighting systems with 85 LED lighting fixtures. The new Euphasus LED Stadium Pro Sports Lighter fixtures require 62 percent less electricity than the old metal halide fixtures. The estimate return on investment is less than five years. 

 “This project will significantly reduce ISU’s energy costs for Holt Arena while providing much better lighting for the facility,” said Buzz Pfeiffer, major customer representative at Idaho Power. “I appreciate working with the staff at Idaho State. They are very progressive with their energy efficiency efforts, and I hope other customers will follow their lead.”

The lighting upgrade at Holt Arena will result in energy savings totaling more than 1,158,620 kilowatt hours per year. That’s enough electricity to power 102 average-sized homes for an entire year.

The new fixtures increased the light quality to achieve lumen output levels required to meet NCAA requirements for televising football. The new lumen level is an average of 80-foot candles and lighting levels are now more evenly distributed throughout the arena. Previously, Holt Arena’s lighting levels averaged about 60 lumens. 

“The new lights will reduce electricity and maintenance costs and improve the quality of lighting for athletics and spectators,” said George Casper, ISU director of events. “It’s a win-win situation.”

Holt Arena’s old system included 174 1,500-watt metal halide sports lights and 362 1,500-watt quartz incandescent technology fixtures. The upgraded lights now features a revised lighting layout and a new control system that allows the lighting levels to be instantaneously adjusted.

Funding for the new lighting system came from parking and facilities fee money and from University Funds.