As DeVos Place celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year, the venue is reflecting on its impact over the past two decades. DeVos Place has been a leader in the industry with its sustainability efforts and remains committed to these practices, integrating eco-friendly applications to reduce environmental impacts while also providing world-class event experiences.
The convention center has garnered numerous accolades over the last twenty years, showcasing its dedication to remaining sustainable and the importance of being a trailblazer within the events and hospitality industry. In 2010, DeVos Place was awarded Green Venues Michigan Certification, a program that was designed to encourage facilities to adopt environmentally friendly practices. DeVos Place won a Biggest Loser Award from the U.S. Green Building Council for having the most energy reduction of a public facility in the state of Michigan in 2015. The venue also finished in second place in the 2nd Annual Michigan Battle of the Buildings Energy Summit in 2016.
Recently, the convention center has begun efforts to join Consumers Energy’s Renewable Energy Program. This program offers a local, cost-effective, flexible, and turnkey solution for businesses looking to align with sustainability goals while supporting the planet for future generations. Enrollment not only advances greening Michigan’s grid but also supports Michigan jobs created through building and operating renewable energy projects.
“We commend the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority for making the commitment to match 100% of the energy they use with renewable energy from projects Consumers Energy will develop,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s Vice President of Customer Experience. “Together, we’re making a meaningful impact in adding clean energy capacity to Michigan’s grid while fostering economic growth and creating jobs.”
The convention center is a founding member of the 2030 District in Michigan, which aims to establish high-performing districts while reducing carbon emissions in the community. Each District commits to meeting 50-65% reductions in energy, water, and transportation-related emissions.
“At DeVos Place, we believe sustainability is not just a practice, it's a commitment to the future of our community,” said Eddie Tadlock, ASM Global Assistant General Manager at DeVos Place. “Through our ongoing efforts to reduce waste and conserve energy, we have made our facilities more environmentally responsible. We are committed to building a culture where our clients, employees, guests, suppliers and contractors help preserve the earth’s natural resources and enhance the quality of life in our community.”
DeVos Place recently underwent a comprehensive lighting upgrade, installing LED lighting and controls throughout the convention center. In the Ballroom and Meeting Rooms alone, wattage was reduced from 284,280 to 24,000. Additionally, there have been numerous improvements made throughout the building to feature more eco-efficient equipment, including the installation of energy efficient HVAC units as well as automated faucets and flushing systems.
By prioritizing sustainability, DeVos Place not only contributes to the preservation of natural resources but also strengthens its role as a community hub dedicated to fostering a cleaner, healthier future. As the convention center moves into its future of operations, DeVos Place will strive to remain a leader for responsible event management and environmental stewardship, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the benefits of a thriving, sustainable Grand Rapids.
About the CAA:
The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA) is the seven-member board that administers DeVos Place, DeVos Performance Hall and Van Andel Arena. The CAA was established on March 29, 2000 by the City of Grand Rapids and County of Kent under the Convention Facility Authority Act, Act 203 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1999. The CAA’s mission is to encourage economic development within the West Michigan region, create jobs, and provide facilities for the entertainment, enjoyment, and/or benefit of the citizens in an economical manner by developing and operating convention, entertainment, and sports facilities within Kent County.
About ASM Global:
Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place and DeVos Performance Hall are managed by ASM Global. Award-winning ASM Global is the world’s No. 1 development and full-service venue company focused on client-first approaches for driving significant financial success. The company’s elite network spans five continents featuring a portfolio of more than 400 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention/exhibition centers and performing arts venues. ASM Global translates its unique visionary ownership experience into innovative project development, planning and execution; content programming; curated guest-immersive experiences; locally tailored solutions; and optimized revenue streams for our client’s properties and surrounding communities. Focused on value creation and economic growth, ASM Global realizes venue business potential to elevate the profitability and profile of our clients and partners. We cultivate strong, inclusive relationships with the communities we work and live in while championing the welfare and development of our employees and small business partners, resulting in a more cohesive, resilient and vibrant community.
ASM Global’s expertise and commitment extends across existing venue management, new venue development and transformative renovation projects across the most exciting properties in the industry, including Kai Tak Sports Park (Hong Kong), Caesars Superdome (New Orleans, Louisiana), The Moscone Center (San Francisco, California), AO Arena (Manchester, U.K.), The Greek Theatre (Los Angeles, California), Desert Diamond Arena (Glendale, Arizona) and Fishers Event Center (Fishers, Indiana).
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