Fayette Mall, Lexington’s premier shopping destination and home to more than 170 retailers, welcomes nearly 8 million visitors each year. The property also features a vibrant open-air lifestyle center with a Cinemark theatre and a selection of dining and retail options. Owned and operated by CBL Properties, Fayette Mall has long been a cornerstone of the region’s retail landscape.
In 2025, the mall took a major step toward sustainability and operational efficiency by upgrading its lighting systems. The project included retrofitting common area light fixtures throughout the interior and installing new LED fixtures with occupancy sensors in exterior spaces, including sidewalks in the open-air lifestyle area. According to General Manager Sarah Robinson, the exterior improvements made for a new welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Through LG&E and KU’s Business Rebates Program, Fayette Mall earned more than $30,000 in rebates, helping offset project costs and accelerating future efficiency initiatives. Even more impressive, the upgrades are projected to save 1,011,308 kWh annually.
Robinson thought the Business Rebates program was a perfect fit for this project. “Our decision to modernize to LED lighting in our parking areas was driven by guest experience and operating efficiency. We pursued the LG&E and KU rebate post-installation, and the program’s simple application and meaningful incentive underscored the value of the upgrade and supports future efficiency work.” Robinson also noted that the process was straightforward and free of unnecessary hurdles, making their participation easy for her team.
Fayette Mall’s experience demonstrates how a small amount of research and strong partner collaboration can lead to big results for budgets, sustainability, and customer experience. With brighter spaces and lower energy bills, Fayette Mall is proving that smart upgrades pay off.
