The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA) is partnering with Consumers Energy to increase energy savings through participation in the Demand Response Program and Renewable Energy Program, as well as ongoing facility upgrades. At this morning's CAA meeting at DeVos Place, Consumers Energy introduced the partnership and presented the CAA with a check for $407,261.12, representing the energy savings of $321,221.12 from DeVos Place’s new lighting control project, as well as the projected savings of over $86,000 from the Demand Response Program agreement that will take place over two years at DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena beginning July 1, 2026.
Under Consumers Energy’s Renewable Energy Program, the CAA will be able to source renewable energy from new Consumers Energy Michigan-based wind and solar projects beginning in 2028 bringing clean energy to the CAA and the local electric grid. The CAA will also be able to claim Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) tied to the projects, further reducing its carbon footprint and advancing its commitment to sustainability.
With the Demand Response Program, the CAA will be able to earn bill credits or a check payment for committing to reduce energy use on event days when electricity demand is at its highest. Taking part in Demand Response will help keep energy reliable and affordable for the West Michigan community.
“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 Senior Vice President, Chief Customer and Growth Officer. “Together, we’re making a meaningful impact in adding clean energy capacity to Michigan’s grid while fostering economic growth and creating jobs.”
In total, over 50 businesses that Consumers Energy serves have committed to over 700 megawatts of emission-free renewable energy supporting their sustainability goals. That’s enough generation to power over 85,000 homes each year and equivalent to removing greenhouse gas emissions produced from over 141,000 cars on the road annually from the environment, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency calculations.
About the CAA
The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA) is the seven-member board that administers DeVos Place, DeVos Performance Hall, Van Andel Arena, Acrisure Amphitheater and Amway Stadium. 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 Consumers Energy:
Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. Consumers Energy knows job number one is to keep the lights on for customers. They are committed to delivering reliable, flexible, and affordable energy to our customers 24/7.
About ASM Global:
Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place and DeVos Performance Hall are managed by ASM Global. ASM Global is the world’s No. 1 development and full-service venue company focused on client-first approaches for driving significant financial success. Acquired by Legends in 2024, 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 clients’ 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.
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