LED lighting project reduces energy use in Student Union buildings
A collaboration between ASUCLA Facilities, ASUCLA Student Union and LADWP retrofitted lighting in Ackerman Union and Kerckhoff Hall, reducing lighting-related energy use by 75%.
Los Angeles, Calif., June 1, 2026 – A recently completed lighting project has modernized Associated Students UCLA (ASUCLA) facilities with the adoption of sustainable energy practices using LED lighting. Operations throughout Kerkchoff Hall and Ackerman Union now have a 75% reduction in lighting-related energy consumption, saving an estimated 324,453 kilowatt-hours and approximately $32,873 in annual related energy costs.
The lighting retrofit project began in 2025 and was backed by $173,500 secured by the ASUCLA Student Union Development team through the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power’s (LADWP) Commercial Lighting Incentive Program (CLIP).
“This project reflects ASUCLA’s commitment to sustainability, operational excellence and enhancing the campus experience through modern, energy-efficient infrastructure that improves our buildings and student-centered spaces,” said Joshua Buendia, ASUCLA Facilities administrator. “Successfully delivering these upgrades across active campus facilities required extensive planning, coordination and collaboration, and we are grateful for all the partnerships that helped bring this impactful project to completion.”
After a year of collaboration between the LADWP and ASUCLA Facilities team, the project was completed in early 2026, replacing fluorescent lights and fixtures with LED kits in the ASUCLA Student Union buildings. This project achieves not only efficient energy practices, but additionally modernizes lighting and related fixtures through Ackerman Union and Kerckhoff Hall for enhanced meeting spaces, communal areas and daily operations within the ASUCLA Student Union.
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About ASUCLA:
Founded in 1919, Associated Students UCLA (ASUCLA) is a nonprofit association that drives vitally essential student services and activities throughout the UCLA campus. ASUCLA boasts the largest college store in the U.S., an extensive food program, UCLA® brand licensing programming through UCLA Trademarks & Licensing, and other services and programs that include student government and student media, which significantly enhances the quality of UCLA’s campus life. For more information and to stay connected, follow @asucla on Instagram or visit asucla.ucla.edu.