Rugby union team Harlequins will see the energy consumption used to light its stadium fall by two thirds after installing a new LED floodlighting system.
The new eco-friendly system has been completed at The Stoop in West London and in addition to reducing the lighting requirement of the ground, the system from Musco Lighting will improve the visual experience for supporters and players at the stadium.
Sarah Roberts, operations director for Harlequins, said: “The installation of Musco’s LED lighting system is a big step as we look to develop The Stoop into one of the best club rugby venues in the world.
“The energy-saving system provides the stadium with the required lux level, with fewer lamps and energy required, which will positively impact our supporters, players and the members of the media.”
The LED system is expected to improve the picture quality for those watching televised premiership rugby, while provisions for up lighting have also been included to enable the ball to be followed when kicked in the air.
Local residents are also said to benefit from the installation due to the reduction in spill and glare into the local area.
Jeff Rogers, president of Musco World, added: “Harlequins has made an investment to provide an enhanced atmosphere for its supporters and a sustainable future for its operations.
“The new lighting system will offer the club leading-edge energy efficiency, elimination of maintenance costs and significantly improved television broadcast.”
The Quins have followed in the footsteps of sporting venues like the nearby Twickenham Stadium as well as Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium. A number of clubs have also adopted energy saving measures, such as London rivals Saracens who opened what they called the most sustainable and energy efficient stadium in the UK in 2013.
Allianz Park in North London incorporates a 50kWp solar array, ground source heat pumps to provide hot water and lighting controls to reduce electricity consumption.
Bristol’s Ashton Gate Stadium recently entered into a 20 year power purchase agreement with the local council for an 117kW solar system to meet the city’s green planning requirements.
