“The Slugger Dome received a $30,000 energy rebate from its electric utility,” says Joe Bolen, tournaments and operations director. In the dome, the lighting is configured into four different zones so different areas can be illuminated depending upon lighting conditions outside, the sports being played, and the percentage of the space being used at the time.
“We can light half or a third and turn them on when we need them,” Bolen says. “They come right on, which is a huge benefit as well. When the facility isn’t being used, we don’t have to have the lights on, which saves money.”
The well-lit, energy efficient Dome allowed the company to offer year-round practice and tournament facilities to area youth clubs and colleges, which increases revenues. Bradley University began using the facility as soon as it opened as additional practice space for its turf sports, including track and cross country, golf, and baseball.