American Idol: Working Towards
a More Sustainable Production

This season, American Idol is leading by example. Not only has the show taken a number of steps behind-the-scenes to reduce the environmental impact of its production, but it has also used its popularity to spread the word about the role individuals can play in the fight against climate change.

• In partnership with the LADWP, FOX Broadcasting Company has secured renewable energy for the Nokia Theatre for the entirety of the two-night American Idol finale. The power will be provided by LADWP’s “Green Power for a Green LA Program,” and sources will include a combination of solar energy, wind energy and hydropower.
• Also during the finale, FOX will install a solar panel system in the American Idol media arrivals area. This high-performance photovoltaic system will be integrated into the LADWP utility grid and will substantially contribute to the renewable energy mix. After the finale, the solar electric system will be donated to a school in California through the Bonneville Environmental Foundation’s Solar 4 R Schools program.
•  At the American Idol finale party, a portion of the air conditioning in the tent will come from solar-powered air conditioning units provided by AquaCell.
• The show purchases recycled paper and plastic goods, including printing paper, paper towels, cups, bowls, and plates.
• Old sets and stages are repurposed and incorporated into new designs.