Why clubs and municipalities switch to LED floodlighting
- Less energy: High luminous efficacy; the Series 12 floodlight for example reaches up to 170 lm/W.
- Instant full output: Metal halide lamps need several minutes after switching on to reach full brightness, and a cooling-down period after switching off. LED is there instantly.
- Levels to suit the use: less light for training, more for matches – by switch, remote control or booking system.
- Less spill light: Targeted optics put the light on the pitch.
Im Sondershausen sports centre the lighting energy fell by 68 %. At CHTC tennis the floodlighting is integrated into the booking system and only runs when people are playing.
Lighting classes to DIN EN 12193
DIN EN 12193 (sports lighting) divides the requirements into three classes:
- Class I: top-level competition, for example national and international matches.
- Class II: mid-level competition, for example regional matches.
- Class III: training, school and recreational sport.
| Sport (outdoors) | Class III | Class II | Class I |
|---|---|---|---|
| Football | 75 lx | 200 lx | 500 lx |
| Tennis | 200 lx | 300 lx | 500 lx |
The values are typical average horizontal illuminance levels as guide values, complemented by requirements for uniformity. Television broadcasts demand considerably more, and federations such as the German Football Association have their own guidelines. What counts for your project is the current version of the standard and, where applicable, the requirements of your federation.
Masts, layout and glare
On football pitches the masts are usually arranged along the long sides of the field, and beside the courts for tennis. Mast height and tilt determine how evenly the field is lit and how much players, spectators and neighbours are dazzled.
- Taller masts allow steeper beam angles – which reduces glare and spill light.
- Existing masts should be checked for structural stability and load capacity before new luminaires are fitted.
- Optics with a narrow beam angle (for example 20° or 40° on Series 12) hit the field precisely.
At CHTC hockey targeted light control raised the illuminance from 220 to around 750 lx – with the same energy consumption and consideration for neighbours and landscape protection.
Neighbours, environment and permits
Sports pitches are often close to residential areas or inside protected landscapes. Light emissions can therefore be an issue for licensing authorities and residents. Modern LED installations help in several ways:
- Precise optics and shields reduce light outside the field of play.
- No upward light means less sky glow.
- Automatic switch-off after training prevents unnecessary operating hours.
The KTHC Rot-Weiss in Cologne lies within a protected landscape – there the task was light quality suitable for sport with limited light emissions.
What does LED floodlighting for a sports pitch cost?
Costs depend on the size of the pitch, the lighting class, the condition of the masts and the controls. Replacing the luminaires on existing, structurally sound masts takes far less effort than a new installation with foundations and cabling.
- Luminaires and optics to match the lighting class
- Checking or replacing the masts
- Controls: switch, remote control, app or booking system
- Lifting platform, installation, commissioning measurements and disposal
With our online planner for floodlighting you can estimate the saving for your installation. As a manufacturer we offer competitive prices – including for clubs on a tight budget.
ConsultationLet's talk about your project.Lighting calculation and quotation from the manufacturer.Funding for clubs and municipalities
There are regularly funding programmes for refurbishing sports facilities and outdoor lighting from the federal government, the states, state sports associations and municipalities. Programmes and conditions change frequently – ask your state sports association and your local authority about the current situation before awarding a contract. We are happy to provide the technical documents for an application.
Frequently asked questions
How many lux does a football pitch need?
Under DIN EN 12193 the typical guide values are 75 lx for training (class III), 200 lx for regional matches (class II) and 500 lx for top-level competition (class I). Federations may have their own requirements.
How many lux does a tennis court need?
For outdoor tennis, DIN EN 12193 states typical guide values of 200 lx in class III, 300 lx in class II and 500 lx in class I.
Can I keep the old floodlight masts?
Often yes. The masts do have to be checked for stability and load capacity for the new luminaires.
How much does LED floodlighting save?
That depends on the old installation and the usage. At the Sondershausen sports centre the lighting energy fell by 68 %.
Does LED floodlighting disturb neighbours less?
Modern LED floodlights with precise optics put the light on the field more accurately than many older installations. That reduces spill light and glare in the surroundings.
