Jefferson Mall, a shopping and entertainment destination in Louisville’s Outer Loop area, has been a community staple since 1978. Owned and operated by CBL Properties, the mall is home to top retailers like Dillard’s, JCPenney, H&M, BJ’s Wholesale, and Ross. In 2025, Jefferson Mall took a major step toward sustainability by completing a comprehensive lighting retrofit across its entire property.
The project replaced outdated fluorescent and metal halide fixtures with high-efficiency LED lighting throughout the mall’s interior common areas and exterior spaces. These upgrades were designed to reduce energy consumption, improve lighting quality, and enhance the experience for shoppers and tenants alike.
Dawn Nelms, General Manager of Jefferson Mall, shared why the initiative mattered: “We appreciate how the Business Rebates program pairs meaningful incentives with hands-on support; it streamlined our planning and made efficiency upgrades even easier to justify. The value shows up in reduced operating costs and a better experience for our shoppers and tenants.”
Through the Business Rebates program, Jefferson Mall earned nearly $38,000 in rebates—critical savings that helped offset project costs. Even more impressive, the retrofit is projected to save Jefferson Mall 832,006 kWh annually. These improvements not only reduce operating expenses but also align with Jefferson Mall’s long-term sustainability goals.
Adwell noted that the process was simple and efficient. “We found participation to be easy and free of red tape. The rebates will help fund future projects, including new rooftop air conditioning units planned for 2026.”
Jefferson Mall’s experience demonstrates how the right energy efficiency program can deliver measurable benefits for businesses, and communities across Kentucky.
