LEDing the way

LEDs (light emitting diodes) are now the preferred lighting choice for sports facilities. In addition to selecting the right solution, however, it is important to consider who you hire to install and supply your chosen product

Sports lighting – from floodlights to internal solutions – have been transformed by the opportunities presented by LED (light-emitting diode) technology and LED light sources. When it comes to outdoor lighting, LED solutions now have the ability to offer comparable brightness at a fraction of the energy cost when compared to traditional, metal halide lamps. LED lighting has also proved to be more durable and show a lower reduction of performance over their service life.

As a result, LED has quickly become the preferred choice for sports facilities looking for a lighting system. It is estimated that around 90% of new installations now utilise LED technology, with some leading lighting manufacturers no longer producing metal halide systems.

The advantages of installing a LED system include lower running costs, longer lasting light fittings, better control of light spillage outside the playing area, greater flexibility in programming (such as to give different colour options), and reduced maintenance.

Setting the standards

As the lighting sector has innovated and developed new solutions, The Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA) has been working with sports organisations to ensure that the sector’s quality standards are kept up to date. As part of this, in late 2024 SAPCA established a new Sports Lighting Division.

The first meeting of the group – which included a number of SAPCA member companies – was held in London on 16 December. The group is primarily aimed at – and consists of – companies and individuals involved in floodlighting (including contractors, manufacturers and consultants). The first meeting was also attended by a number of national governing bodies of sport, who discussed and consulted on their future plans. These included the International Tennis Federation, LTA, Rugby Football Union, England Hockey, England Netball and UK Athletics.

Following the updates from each national governing body, there was a lengthy discussion on standards and issues facing the sector. During the discussions, it was decided that there is a need for a SAPCA Code of Practice for sports lighting, to ensure that a series of standards are laid out for SAPCA members to adhere to. As with the other SAPCA Codes of Practice, the sports lighting code will consider minimum standards, best/standard practices, design and delivery criteria, as well as new build requirements versus upgrades.

The second meeting of the Sports Lighting Division took place in February and SAPCA aims to have the new code available to members by the end of Q2 2025.

Best practice

While there are many companies offering their services for sports-related electrical and lighting work, it is essential to choose a contractor that is a genuine specialist in the sports facility industry. In addition, any company involved in a sports project should have the requisite expert technical knowledge and experience. Visiting previous examples of their lighting installations at similar facilities is always time well spent.

Choosing a SAPCA member as a lighting contractor provides important reassurances that the company is a specialist in lighting solutions – and has a track record of delivering successful projects.

SAPCA sets standards with its new Sports Lighting Division and upcoming Code of Practice

SportsNation showcases some recent examples of completed lighting projects involving SAPCA members

Earlsmann Lighting installs energy-efficient lighting at High Wycombe Leisure Centre

Sports facilities across the UK are under increasing pressure to improve their energy efficiency while maintaining high-quality environments for their users. High Wycombe Leisure Centre’s recent upgrade to its five-a-side football pitch lighting is a prime example of how thoughtful investment in technology can enhance both performance and sustainability.

SAPCA member, Earlsmann Lighting, designed and supplied a tailored LED lighting system for the facility, ensuring an optimal level of 120 lux. This strikes a balance between visibility and efficiency, providing players with a well-lit environment while reducing glare and shadows that can impact gameplay. More importantly, LED technology offers substantial long-term savings by lowering energy consumption and maintenance costs compared to traditional lighting systems.

Beyond financial benefits, the upgrade also prioritises player safety. Uniform light distribution across the pitch ensures that every part of the playing surface is clearly visible, reducing the risk of accidents.

JHP Electrical completes LED floodlighting project at Brightwell Tennis Club

Sports lighting specialists and electrical contractors, JHP Electrical Services, has completed a project to upgrade the floodlights at Brightwell Tennis Club in Farnham. The project involved replacing the existing floodlights, mounted on the masts surrounding the club’s five all-weather floodlit courts, with superior Legacy Lighting LED floodlights to ensure a 500-lux lighting standard meets with the LTA’s requirements.

As members of SAPCA and NICEIC-accredited electrical contractors, JHP Electrical is committed to excellence and compliance with stringent safety protocols, sustainability standards and rigorous performance testing. At Brightwell, this commitment saw the company take meticulous care to protect both the courts’ principal playing areas (PPA) and total play areas (TPA) by using surface protection below the cherry picker during the installation.

The LED floodlighting installation has significantly enhanced the club’s facilities, by providing it with high-quality, well-lit courts which have uniform lighting, improving visibility and a reduction in energy.

Helping sports have a more sustainable future

SAPCA member, Floodlighting and Electrical Services, has been working with clubs, schools, and stadiums across England and Wales, helping them switch from metal halide to LED. Recent installation projects range from Wrexham Tennis Centre and Marine Academy Plymouth to Cwmbran Stadium and the Football Association Wales HQ at Colliers Park.

“Our LED installations are keeping the game going longer and better,” a spokesperson for Floodlighting and Electrical said.

“Rugby clubs like Llandovery RFC, and Ystradgynlais RFC now have match-quality floodlighting, while Gol Centre Newport and Paignton Academy have switched to energy-efficient, cost-saving LEDs.

Upgrading to LED makes a real difference for players, clubs, and communities

“And it’s not just the big venues. Schools and local sports centres like Abertillery Leisure Centre and Hawthorn High School are seeing the benefits of safer, more reliable floodlighting. Whether it’s a main pitch, training area, or MUGA, upgrading to LED makes a real difference for players, clubs, and communities.”

Lumosa lights installed at Thorncliffe Tennis Club

Thorncliffe Tennis Club near Sheffield has upgraded its floodlights from halogen to energy-efficient LED lights. The lighting installation forms part of a larger redevelopment of the club, which has seen the facility being transformed from a club with aging courts to a fully renovated, floodlit facility.

“This move isn’t just about better visibility – it’s a game-changer for sustainability and performance,” the club said in a statement. “We now have brighter, clearer courts for safer play thanks to the energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly lights. It also means that we now have more opportunities to put on evening games and events.”

The lighting solution was supplied by SAPCA member, Lumosa.

“With our Lumosa LED lighting, players can now enjoy crystal clear visibility, extended play hours and massive energy savings,” Lumosa said. “It’s a win for the club, the community and the future of grassroots tennis.”