Coopersburg, PA (December 07, 2009) – A Lutron project at the landmark office tower, The New York Times Building, continues to earn recognition for its innovative design and remarkable energy savings, thanks in part to Lutron’s Quantum® total light management system.

Most recently, Lutron won a Grand Award, Division VI-Commercial for its entry (The New York Times Building) in the 2009 Awards of Excellence competition, sponsored by the National Commercial Builders Council (NCBC) of the National Association of Homebuilders.

The Awards of Excellence program recognizes achievements in the commercial building industry for both remodeling and new construction. Winners are selected by a panel of industry peers who review the projects in terms of design, market appeal, energy efficiency, innovation, creative problem solving, and overall success in meeting goals.

The 52-story tower serves as the new headquarters for The New York Times Company, and features open spaces and floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Originally designed to use 1.28 watts per square foot, the inclusion of Quantum has resulted in usage of only 0.38 watts per square foot, producing a 72 percent reduction in electrical consumption, and yearly savings of $315,100. Lighting control strategies employed in the building include light level tuning, daylight harvesting and occupancy/vacancy sensing.

“The energy usage savings is stunning,” said Glenn Hughes, Director of Construction for The New York Times Company during the design, installation, and commissioning of the new building. “Lutron’s lighting control system has delivered an absolutely over-the-top performance. When I talk with other construction and lighting consultants, they’re astonished at the results.”

Since the system’s commissioning, Lutron has garnered trade and mainstream media coverage, including Environmental Design+Construction, Architectural Lighting, Consulting Specifying Engineer, Commercial Building Products and Fortune for its work.

“This project continues to provide inspiration to the commercial building community on how to build both smartly and successfully,” said Ed Blair, Vice President and General Manager, Commercial Systems at Lutron. “Being recognized by the NCBC is proof positive that light control is gaining acceptance as a viable, energy-saving option.”

About Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. (www.lutron.com) Lutron Electronics Co., Inc, headquartered in Coopersburg, Pa., is the world leader in the design and manufacture of light control solutions for both residential and commercial applications. The company offers a wide variety of lighting controls, whole-home and whole-building dimming systems, and electronically controlled shading solutions. Lutron products save energy, increase space flexibility, and enhance occupant comfort and productivity, making them essential to any home and building.