LED stadium lights are more energy efficient and can last longer than the alternatives, such as high-pressure sodium or metal halide lights. Depending on the LED solutions you install, you can save up to 70% in energy costs—and enjoy LED bulbs that can last up to 100,000 hours. LED stadium lights may have a useful lifespan that is at least ten times longer than other lighting.
Find out why many major sporting organizations have already switched to LED lighting solutions for their stadiums due to energy saving, light quality, and lower maintenance.
LED Solutions for Large Exterior Spaces
LED solutions are the future of lighting technology for outdoor use because of the major advantages LED stadium lights have over alternative choices.
LED stadium lights are designed for use to evenly illuminate large outdoor venues and sports fields with high-quality, widely-cast lighting with the desired color temperature that meets the requirements of major athletic leagues. These LED solutions are also effective for illuminating parking lots, airport runaways, racetracks, or other large outdoor areas.
NetZero Energy has installed projects using LED lighting in Oregon, LED lighting in Washington, and even LED lighting in Alaska, where harsh weather conditions create extra challenges for LED solutions.
Advantages of LED Stadium Lights
LED stadium lights offer several advantages over alternative lighting systems. Here are the key benefits:
Energy efficiency- LED lights consume significantly less energy than high-pressure sodium or halogen lights, leading to lower electricity bills and reduced environmental impact.
Longer lifespan- LEDs have a much longer lifespan. High-quality commercial LED bulbs may last up to 100,000 hours, which means fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs.
Instant on/off- LED lights turn on and off instantly without the warm-up time required by other lighting systems. This is particularly useful for stadiums where lighting needs to be immediately responsive.
Better light quality- LEDs provide bright, clear light with better color rendering, enhancing visibility for both players and spectators. They can also reduce glare and shadows.
Directional lighting- LED lights can be directed precisely where needed, reducing light spill and minimizing light pollution. This is important for ensuring that the light is focused on the field and not disturbing nearby areas.
Dimmability- Many LED systems are easily dimmable, allowing for greater control over lighting levels, which can be adjusted according to the needs of different events or times of day.
Durability- LED lights are more durable and resistant to shock and vibration compared to traditional bulbs, making them suitable for outdoor use where they might be exposed to harsh conditions.
Lower heat emission- LEDs emit very little heat compared to traditional lighting, reducing the load on air conditioning systems in indoor stadiums and making the environment more comfortable.
Environmentally friendly- LEDs do not contain hazardous materials like mercury, making them a more environmentally friendly option. They are also more easily recyclable.
Cost savings- Although the initial cost of LED lighting can be higher, the long-term savings in energy and maintenance costs typically offset the initial investment.
Enhanced control systems - Modern LED stadium lights can be integrated with advanced control systems, allowing for automated lighting schedules, remote control, and integration with other smart systems for more efficient management.
These advantages make LED stadium lights a preferred choice for modern sports facilities looking to enhance performance, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
Lighting Standards for Sports
The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) offers guidance for sports lighting standards. When you follow these standards, this LED solution provides a good amount of light and effectively keeps everyone’s eyes on the action. Additionally, working with NetZero Energy will ensure your installation is in compliance with any local regulations.
Illuminance Requirements for Various Sports
A foot-candle (fc) is the unit of measurement used for illuminance, which represents how bright the light appears to be when you are playing sports. One fc is the illuminance on a one-square-foot surface from a uniform source of light that is one foot away. You can use a light meter to measure the fc.
Here is a table or comparative values for illuminance levels for different sports and the type of play.
Sport | Location | Practice | High School | Collegiate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Baseball | Outdoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 100 fc |
Football | Outdoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 100 fc |
Basketball | Outdoor | 10 - 20 fc | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc |
Basketball | Indoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 100 fc |
Soccer | Outdoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 100 fc |
Softball | Outdoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 100 fc |
Tennis | Outdoor | 10 - 20 fc | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc |
Tennis | Indoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 75 fc |
Pickleball | Outdoor | 10 - 20 fc | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc |
Pickleball | Indoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 75 fc |
Ice Hockey | Indoor | 20 - 30 fc | 50 - 75 fc | 100 - 200 fc |
Swimming | Indoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 75 fc |
Gymnasium | Indoor | 20 - 30 fc | 30 - 50 fc | 50 - 75 fc |
NetZero Energy LED solutions are available to meet specific illuminance requirements for any type of sports and LED controller systems that allow illuminance adjustments for multi-use facilities.
Other Considerations for Sports Lighting
Uniformity - Uniformity is the maximum to minimum illuminance levels.
Glare control - This is necessary to avoid direct lighting aimed at players or spectators.
Color rendering index (CRI) – CRI ensures colors appear correctly (important for television).
LED Solutions are the Best Choice for Stadium Lighting
The Illuminating Engineering Society recommends LED solutionsand LED stadium lighting for energy savings and long lifespan. Work with the experts at NetZero Energyto plan your lighting design using LED stadium lights.
