One of the most fascinating topics I have covered over the years has been the LEED certification of U.S. convention centers. According to Shepard Event Services, in 2026, nearly 30 U.S. convention centers enjoyed LEED certification across Platinum, Gold, and Silver levels. To see Shephard Event Services’ rundown of LEED certified convention centers and what makes each uniquely green, click here. You may just find some best practices to replicate.
I will be interviewing some of the folks behind the design and construction of the new Austin (Texas) Convention Center soon. Set to open in 2029, the Center will run on 100 percent renewable energy with a vision to achieve ILFI Zero Carbon certification and align with the Austin Climate Equity Plan.
ILFI Zero Carbon certification is a globally recognized, third-party verified standard from the International Living Future Institute (ILFI). It proves that a building’s operational and embodied carbon emissions have been completely neutralized, addressing both daily energy use and the carbon footprint of construction.
About the Austing Climate Equity Plan
The Austin Climate Equity Plan is the city’s framework to achieve net-zero community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. It requires all new buildings to be net-zero carbon and mandates deep energy retrofits for existing structures to reduce energy burdens on low-income residents.
The new Austin Convention Center will significantly increase the rentable square footage of the existing facility, growing from 365,000 square feet to 620,000 square feet of rentable space. The $1.6 billion project, known as UnconventionalATX, will be funded through Hotel Occupancy Tax and Convention Center revenues.
New Solar at the Orange County Convention Center
The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Fla. reached an exciting clean energy milestone earlier this month with the completion of its 2.2-Megawatt rooftop solar installation, which is one of the largest of its kind in Florida. The upgraded system more than doubles the Convention Center’s previous solar generation while using the same rooftop footprint, marking a significant step forward in the facility’s long term sustainability strategy.
Developed in partnership with SolarEdge and Advanced Green Technologies, the project was unveiled during the OCCC’s Great Solar Celebration on April 24. The event brought together local leaders, industry experts, and sustainability advocates to highlight the continuing role the Center plays in advancing renewable energy solutions across Central Florida.
Upgrades to Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center
Early last month, the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center completed a $33 million sustainability initiative. It includes the installation of 5,335 solar panels on the Center’s roof and 566,000 square feet of “cool” roofing. The venue replaced its HVAC system, improving airflow by 20 to 25 percent. Other additions include LED lighting, motion sensors, EV chargers, a rain-catch system, a transition to biodegradable and compostable service ware, and the banning of plastic straws.
In the highly competitive meetings and conventions space, it is exciting to see cities setting their sustainability targets so high.
Got some convention/meeting center news to share? I can be reached at greenlodgingnews@gmail.com.
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