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Leveling Up: How BRF Arcade Transformed Their Space Through Energy Efficiency Upgrades

See how energy efficiency upgrades transformed the space and strengthened the heart of downtown Black River Falls.  

Blog brf arcade neon sign

Located in historic downtown Black River Falls, BRF Arcade offers a fun and safe place to play video games, host a party or event, or simply hang out with friends. Tyson Clarke, a native Australian who has lived in Black River Falls with his family for decades and proudly calls it home, runs BRF Arcade along with several other properties downtown. As both a business owner and committed member of the community, Tyson sees energy efficiency as a key part of his responsibility and was eager to work with Focus on Energy. “Making these upgrades means I can take care of my business and give back to a place that’s given a lot to me and my family. Energy efficiency is one way we can help build a stronger, more sustainable downtown.”

Tyson had already made some smart energy-efficient choices, including installing an efficient hot water heater and furnaces. That foundation allowed Focus on Energy to concentrate on lighting and remaining heating and cooling improvements.

Lighting upgrades 

Aged fluorescent lighting was replaced with new, efficient bulbs and fixtures that stylistically fit the arcade vibe.

Lighting upgrades
Before

Aged fluorescent lighting was replaced with new, efficient bulbs and fixtures that stylistically fit the arcade vibe. 

After

Estimated annual savings from the upgrades:  

Annual Energy Savings: 9,219 kWh  

Annual Cost Savings: $1,198 

Air Conditioning upgrades

An old AC unit was replaced with a newer, more efficient unit.

Before

Aged fluorescent lighting was replaced with new, efficient bulbs and fixtures that stylistically fit the arcade vibe. 

After

Estimated annual savings from the upgrades:  

Annual Energy Savings: 9,219 kWh  

Annual Cost Savings: $1,198 

Estimated annual savings from the upgrades:

Annual Energy Savings: 690 kWh 
Annual Cost Savings: $90

Furnace upgrades

An older furnace was upgraded to a more efficient unit.

Before

Aged fluorescent lighting was replaced with new, efficient bulbs and fixtures that stylistically fit the arcade vibe. 

After

Estimated annual savings from the upgrades:  

Annual Energy Savings: 9,219 kWh  

Annual Cost Savings: $1,198 

  • Estimated annual savings from the upgrades:  

  • Annual Energy Savings: 50 kWh

  • Annual Gas Savings: 212 therms

  • Annual Cost Savings: $224 

Brf arcade

Entire cost savings from the project:

3.38 kW 

11,425 kWh 

212 therms 

Totaling $1,702 in annual cost savings

Thanks to the savings from retrofitting, Tyson plans to add solar panels to his facilities, further reducing his energy footprint. “The savings we’re seeing today are just the start. These upgrades are helping BRF Arcade thrive while also building a more sustainable future for Black River Falls.” With the support of Focus on Energy, Tyson demonstrates energy efficiency is not just a one-time fix, but an ongoing process that opens doors for future improvements.

Person with short hair and beard, wearing a black shirt and glasses, arms crossed, smiling, standing against a red brick wall.

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