RAPID CITY, S.D. --- The South Dakota Mines Athletics Dept. recently completed a lighting upgrade in Goodell Gymnasium at the King Center in Rapid City.
 
Not only was it a much needed installation to brighten the gymnasium, it is also a very environmental friendly and cost saving addition.
 
Details of the upgrade included:
Removing (72) 4-Lamp T5HO Fixtures & (20) 6-Lamp T5HO Fixtures; Replacing with (92) 105W LED; Changing color of lamp from 3500k to 5000k; Foot candle increase 38 percent; Cost of change out - $58,807; Energy cost savings per year - $6,400/year (without upgrade - $10,170); HVAC Savings per year - $1326/year; First Year ROI – 22%  and 10-year Lifecycle Savings - $74,130; Annual Savings - $7413; Black Hills Energy rebate - $25,00).
 
"Not only was this a much needed upgrade to Goodell Gymnasium, these are also environmental-friendly lighting fixtures which is saving us money in the long run," said Hardrocker Athletics Director Joel Lueken. "We've increased the brightness in the gym and the lights are programmable to allow for a better fan experience during Hardrocker home event."
 
Lueken added, "I would like to send out a special thank you to Hardrocker facilities staff for making this happen."