As the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) celebrates its 30th anniversary, the Centre continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Its latest lighting transformation reflects this commitment, delivering advanced technology solutions that enhance the visitor experience, improve operational efficiency and support the industry’s transition to a more sustainable future.
The project was initiated in response to the challenges of an ageing lighting system that had become inefficient and increasingly difficult to maintain. The upgrade aimed to address inconsistent lighting levels, poor uniformity, high energy consumption from halogen and fluorescent lamps and rising maintenance costs.
Given the Centre’s architectural complexity, a standard solution was not feasible. BCEC worked with industry specialists to design and implement a bespoke digital LED lighting system that integrates tuneable white LED fixtures, programmable digital controls, energy-saving sensors and architectural RGB installations to enhance the venue’s design features.
The impact of the upgrade is significant. In 2024, improvements to the Plaza Ballroom and Great Hall delivered substantial energy savings. The Plaza Ballroom reduced energy use from 121kW to 41kW, a 66% reduction, while the Great Hall achieved a 75% reduction, from 63kW to 16kW. These reductions equate to lower operational costs, a meaningful decrease in the Centre’s carbon footprint, and reduced maintenance requirements.
Building Services Manager, Paul Alexander explains, “A primary driver of the upgrade was the Centre’s commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency. The significant energy savings, combined with improved performance and flexibility, have enhanced the experience for clients and guests. I’m particularly proud that we partnered with local Brisbane businesses to bring this project to life, delivering exceptional results and supporting our community.”
The project also provides a scalable model for other venues seeking to modernise infrastructure while advancing sustainability objectives. BCEC’s approach, particularly the development of bespoke fixtures that minimise structural disruption, has already informed discussions with other venues within the Legends Global network.
General Manager Kym Guesdon adds, “This initiative reflects BCEC’s long-standing commitment to innovation and sustainability. As we celebrate 30 years, projects like this ensure we remain a world-class venue, delivering value to our clients while reducing our environmental impact.”
By investing in smart, sustainable solutions, BCEC is positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of clients and the industry, with future-ready infrastructure that supports both operational excellence and environmental responsibility.
www.bcec.com.au
