Intro Paragraph: In this episode of The Live Music Industry Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Honey, Executive Director of TACAW (The Arts Campus at Willits), to explore the world’s first net-zero all-electric performing arts facility. Located in the heart of the U.S., TACAW is a groundbreaking venue that generates more energy than it consumes, setting a new standard for sustainability in the arts. Through an in-depth conversation, Ryan shares the story behind this innovative venue, its cutting-edge design, and the operational strategies that make it a model for other cultural institutions. From renewable energy to carbon-free touring, this episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of creating a performing arts space that is both artistically inspiring and environmentally responsible.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Net-Zero Design and Energy Efficiency:
  Discover how TACAW’s design integrates smart energy management features like compartmentalized heating and cooling systems that adjust based on occupancy, and high-performance insulation to maintain optimal temperature and sound quality throughout the venue. Learn about how the building operates with no gas lines thanks to an all-electric kitchen and solar panels that generate more energy than the venue consumes.
• Overcoming Environmental Challenges:
  Understand how TACAW tackles unique challenges like snow accumulation on solar panels during harsh winters, ensuring that energy production remains uninterrupted. The venue also purchases additional renewable energy from Holy Cross Energy, ensuring reliable and sustainable energy use year-round.
• Making Sustainability Feasible for All Venues:
  Ryan shares how TACAW serves as a model for other performing arts centers, particularly in cold climates, demonstrating that net-zero operations are not just for warm-weather locations. He emphasizes the importance of starting with small, achievable steps toward sustainability and offers guidance on how other venues can begin their journey toward greener practices.
• The Economics of Net-Zero Venues:
  Learn about the initial costs associated with building a net-zero facility, and how long-term savings are achieved through falling solar prices, electrification, and the elimination of gas bills. Ryan discusses how the economics of sustainable building have shifted, making net-zero venues more affordable over time.
• Supporting Carbon-Free Touring for Artists:
  Explore how TACAW works with artists to promote carbon-free touring, reducing travel-related carbon emissions. The discussion highlights the role of local venues in supporting sustainability by minimizing the carbon footprint associated with artists’ travel.
• Emerging Technologies in Sustainability:
  Ryan touches on cutting-edge technologies in renewable energy, including the potential of geothermal energy and methane capture from abandoned coal mines. He discusses how these technologies can help the arts sector reduce its environmental impact while also making strides in sustainability.
• Optimizing Operations with Technology and Design:
  Learn how TACAW uses technology-driven operational efficiencies to enhance its sustainability efforts. Simple yet effective design choices allow staff to focus on creating more engaging experiences for guests, while also continually improving the venue’s eco-friendly operations.
• Future Vision: Expanding the Sustainable Arts Network:
  The episode concludes with Ryan’s vision for the future of sustainable arts venues—expanding TACAW’s impact by building a larger campus with more net-zero facilities and creating a network of sustainable venues that support eco-friendly touring for artists. He also suggests organizing a sustainability conference for the music industry to bring together venues, artists, and sustainability experts to share knowledge and collaborate on greener practices.