Community members and visitors alike visit the Pendleton Center for the Arts (PCA) to broaden their knowledge and understanding of all forms of creativity. The PCA opened in 2001 after an extensive remodel of a Carnegie library built in 1916. The over 12,000 square-foot space features art exhibits, classrooms, a ceramics studio, an auditorium and a fine craft marketplace.
Nestled against the picturesque Umatilla River, the PCA is centrally located on Main Street in downtown Pendleton. Roberta Lavadour, the center’s director, considers the building a community showpiece. “The design is very ornate,” she said. “The architect who did the renovations maintained the harmony of the original concept while incorporating needed, more modern features and amenities that improve accessibility.”
As part of a larger HVAC equipment modernization effort, Lavadour chose to upgrade the center’s thermostats to energy-efficient smart thermostats. The installation of 12 new thermostats reduced the center’s energy usage while enhancing control over indoor temperature settings.
Updated HVAC systems operate more efficiently with modern thermostats
In late 2022, the PCA’s aging HVAC system began breaking down more frequently. With major upgrades requiring careful budget planning, Lavadour started researching a replacement.
A little over a year later, the HVAC system failed completely, but Lavadour was ready. She partnered with the center’s trusted HVAC technician, Gordon’s Heating & Cooling, to select and install a new system as quickly as possible.
Along with the new HVAC system, the PCA needed updated thermostats to operate it. The contractor recommended smart thermostats to help conserve energy use. Lavadour wholeheartedly agreed.
“Energy efficiency has a big impact on our budget because the building is so old and operational costs are high. It takes a lot of heat and AC to maintain a comfortable, inviting space.” – Roberta Lavadour
After learning from her contractor that Energy Trust of Oregon could help cover the cost of the upgrade, Lavadour knew smart thermostats were the right choice. She secured $4,800 in cash incentives from Energy Trust—enough to pay for new thermostats and installation in full. The smart thermostats are expected to save the PCA over $700 annually in utility costs, freeing up more funds for important projects like providing free art classes to children and teens.
Local teens participating in an after-school pottery class.
Smart thermostats help organizations maintain a comfortable space and save energy
Reduced energy costs aren’t the only reason why smart thermostats were the right choice for the organization. Lavadour touts their precise temperature control as a major benefit. With so many rooms, some used only once a day, Lavadour and other staff appreciate how quickly the thermostats adjust temperatures.
Compared to other options, smart thermostats offer advanced scheduling and remote access capabilities as an added convenience. While the PCA’s smart thermostats follow set schedules aligned with business hours, Lavadour values the ability to make small adjustments through an app on her phone when necessary. “The center holds a lot of events, so smart thermostats make managing temperature easy and discreet when there are a lot of people around,” she said.
Other staff members share her enthusiasm. Education coordinator Kate Brizendine said the new smart thermostats immediately made the center more comfortable. “It’s been life-changing,” she said. “I’m not even being dramatic!” Brizendine noted the old thermostats, especially the one in her office, never seemed to operate properly. Since the upgrade, both staff and students taking art classes have noticed the difference. “It’s so much more comfortable, and in the classrooms, too.”
Pendleton Center for the Arts education coordinator Kate Brizendine operating the smart thermostat in her office.
Cash incentives make energy-efficient smart thermostat upgrades more affordable
Having worked with Energy Trust on several occasions over the last 15 years, Lavadour appreciates the support the program provides. “There’s great value in improving efficiency. Energy Trust makes it easier, effortless and more affordable,” she said.
In addition to offering cash incentives for equipment like the PCA’s new smart thermostats, Energy Trust helps connect staff with trained contractors. Lavadour’s go-to HVAC technician is part of Energy Trust’s Trade Ally Network, which made the upgrade process even smoother.
“Building maintenance isn’t appealing, but it’s so, so necessary. Finding a partner helps make it easier.” – Roberta Lavadour
Upgrade your equipment for less and start saving on energy bills
Organizations and businesses looking to reduce operational costs and gain better control of their indoor comfort can save on a new smart thermostat with Energy Trust. Learn more about our commercial smart thermostats incentives and reach out when you’re ready to get started.