- Tennis LTV Haaren
Investing in LED leads
to significant savings
Energy management at sports clubs will undergo a complete overhaul starting in January 2016. Clubs will no longer be able to claim a tax benefit afterward. They are now expected to invest upfront in energy-saving solutions. LTV Haaren already implemented this several years ago. The government is now using the results from LTV Haaren as an example of the perfect business case.
Starting in January 2016, sports clubs will no longer be able to claim the so-called “ecotax.” This tax refund on energy consumption will be abolished. In its place, there will be a subsidy for energy-saving measures, which can cover up to 30% of the investment costs. The government hopes that this will encourage sports clubs to invest more actively in sustainable facilities, thereby reducing energy consumption at the clubs.
At LTV Haaren, they already know from experience how much can be saved within a club. “In 2010, we invested in several sustainability measures. For example, our pavilion was renovated and insulated, we replaced the boiler and gas heater with a high-efficiency combi system, and we also replaced our (cooling/freezing) equipment,” says Jan de Jong on behalf of the club. “In addition, we purchased solar panels in 2013 and replaced the lighting on 8 artificial turf tennis courts with LED lighting from AAA-LUX.”
LTV HAAREN'S SMART LED CHOICE
LTV Haaren carefully considered its decision to switch to LED lighting. “We wanted to ensure the investment would significantly reduce energy consumption, even with a long payback period,” says De Jong. At the time, LED technology was still emerging, so the Sustainability Working Group conducted extensive research, consulted various suppliers, and evaluated their products.
With expertise in energy tech, economics, and project management, the group shortlisted three suppliers. De Jong’s experience at Essent helped them assess the options. Ultimately, AAA-LUX was chosen for its proven technology and commitment to innovation.
IMPORTANT SAVINGS
LTV Haaren’s LED lighting offers significant energy savings and cost reductions. According to the Mulier Institute, LED fixtures from AAA-LUX use only 1400 watts when dimmed, compared to 2200 watts for conventional fixtures, while maintaining the same light output. This switch has saved the club over 10,000 kWh annually, and De Jong anticipates that rising energy costs will shorten the payback period.
In addition to energy savings, LTV Haaren reduced its electricity capacity from 3 x 80 A to 3 x 63 A, saving an additional 300 euros per year. LED lights also last longer, minimizing maintenance and lamp replacement costs. The club’s initial investment of nearly 40,000 euros is expected to pay back within 12 years, factoring in conservative estimates for future energy price increases.
UNLIMITED BENEFITS
De Jong highlights several benefits of LED lighting at LTV Haaren: greater energy efficiency, adjustable light intensity, longer lifespan, minimal maintenance, and reduced glare. The lighting closely resembles daylight, improving tennis play. Controlled via a main switch in the changing room, the courts use energy-saving orientation lighting when not in use.
While members have adapted well, De Jong notes there’s still potential for further savings. After over two years of using AAA-LUX LED lighting, LTV Haaren is seeing significant results, and the removal of the Ecotax poses no concern, as the 2013 investment is already paying off.