Long Beach Convention Center unveils solar-powered roof and efficient HVAC systems, reducing energy use and supporting sustainability goals.
April 8, 2026
The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center has completed a $33 million infrastructure overhaul, transforming its roof into a solar power plant that feeds clean energy into the municipal grid. The project, which began in 2025, included replacing the roof, upgrading HVAC systems, and installing more than 5,000 solar panels.
The solar installation is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 700 homes annually. Photo: Jose Cordon
The initiative unfolded in three phases, starting with the replacement of 566,000 square feet of roofing under a Cool Roof System to improve insulation and reduce structural weight. In December 2025, 32 air handling units were installed, increasing airflow efficiency by up to 25%. The final phase saw the installation of solar panels capable of generating up to 4.8 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually.
"This $33 million infrastructure transformation demonstrates our city's unwavering commitment to environmental leadership and fiscal responsibility," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "By modernizing this iconic waterfront facility, we're not only reducing operational costs for taxpayers — we're generating clean energy that powers hundreds of Long Beach homes."
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The solar installation is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 700 homes annually, contributing to the city’s sustainability goals. Combined with the new HVAC systems, the venue anticipates a significant reduction in energy consumption year over year.
In December 2025, 32 air handling units were installed, increasing airflow efficiency by up to 25%. Photo: Jose Cordon
The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center has completed a $33 million infrastructure overhaul, transforming its roof into a solar power plant that feeds clean energy into the municipal grid. Photo: Jose Cordon
Josh Kritzler, president of North American venues and content for Legends Global, emphasized the broader impact of the project. "Projects like this demonstrate how our venues can partner with municipalities to modernize older facilities while simultaneously advancing environmental goals. The combination of energy-efficient systems and renewable energy generation sets a benchmark for the entire industry."
The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center hosts hundreds of events annually, including major conventions and entertainment productions. The infrastructure improvements reflect a long-term commitment to modernizing public assets and investing in sustainability.
"This project represents a transformative moment for the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center," said Robert Smit, general manager of the LBCEC for Legends Global. "By replacing critical infrastructure and adding a substantial solar installation, we're establishing a new operational standard for convention centers nationwide."
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