• Palmer Stadium Athletics

The oldest game uses the latest technology

It’s the oldest sport in humankind, yet members of various athletics clubs around the globe are currently enjoying the latest LED illumination technology. They can practice as often as they like as the energy bill hardly makes a dent in the municipal finances.
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Sports play an essential role in German society, fostering social cohesion across communities. Even in remote villages, a fully equipped sports facility is likely available, often at no charge to children under 18. However, this comes at a cost to local municipalities that fund these facilities. As a signatory of the Global Climate Change Framework, Germany faces additional responsibilities to reduce its CO₂ footprint. This commitment has led the city of Walldorf to replace conventional floodlights with energy-efficient LED technology. “Last year, we started by installing AAA-LUX LED luminaires at FC Astoria’s football fields, and we recently updated the athletics stadium,” explains Bern Kempf of Kempf GmbH. In total, 57 luminaires were installed, providing tailored lighting for each athletics discipline as well as the football field. The system’s touchscreen control offers seven illumination scenarios, two for football and five for various athletic events.

SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS

Walldorf expects that the LED installation at its athletics stadium will significantly reduce both energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. Kempf explains, “Previously, 24 luminaires on six masts produced 150 Lux while consuming 50 kW. Now, 57 luminaires deliver 400 Lux but only consume 40 kW at full capacity.” This upgrade was essential since the local football club moved to a higher league, requiring improved lighting.

Additionally, Walldorf can now illuminate specific areas based
on activity, eliminating the need to power all lights at once. This selective lighting feature achieves an estimated 25% savings, marking a notable improvement in efficiency. The choice to use AAA-LUX LED luminaires also reflects Germany’s commitment
to quality. “AAA-LUX luminaires are used globally, including at Palmer Park in the UK, which served as a model for this project,” Kempf adds. By implementing this advanced technology, Walldorf not only supports its sustainability goals but also sets the stage for future athletic accomplishments at its modernized facility.