Lighting in Design Q4 2024

BayArena prepares for Champions League with cutting-edge LEDVANCE lighting

In an ambitious bid to enhance both fan experience and sustainability standards, BayArena, home to Bayer 04 Leverkusen, has introduced a revolutionary new lighting system in partnership with LEDVANCE.

I n line with UEFA Elite Level A lighting requirements for Champions League fixtures, the stadium has been equipped with state-of the-art LED floodlights. The system promises not only to meet broadcasting demands but also to reflect the club’s eco-friendly ethos. A new standard for stadium lighting Bayer 04 Leverkusen, reigning Bundesliga champions, recognised the need to ensure BayArena’s facilities were as exceptional as the club’s on-pitch performance. With Champions League matches on the horizon, the club set out to upgrade its lighting to meet the latest UEFA specifications and provide crystal clear visibility for spectators both in the stadium and at home. Working with LEDVANCE, the team created a bespoke lighting solution that achieves the high brightness required for football while enhancing the quality of illumination across the venue. “Our aim was to surpass the typical standards,” commented Thomas Fobbe, Territory Head for LEDVANCE in the DACH region. “This project sets a new benchmark in sports lighting, merging cutting-edge quality with sustainability, and we are proud to have partnered with Bayer 04 Leverkusen to accomplish this.” Blending sustainability with innovation The new lighting system goes beyond the pitch, representing a significant stride in Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s commitment to sustainability. By selecting LED technology, BayArena has greatly reduced its energy consumption, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. The LEDs not only deliver high-quality light but also have a long lifespan, which reduces maintenance and makes operations more efficient. “With LEDVANCE as a key sustainability partner, we’re on course to make all club buildings eco-friendly,” noted Felix Duden, Managing Director of TecArena-Plus GmbH. “Our new floodlight system supports our long-term vision of equipping the entire club with environmentally responsible lighting solutions, setting an example for future stadiums.”

Technical precision and customisa tion The newly installed floodlights are arranged in rings under the stadium’s roof, requiring meticulous planning and installation. Each light was individually lifted and secured by climbers due to the intricate placement of the outer ring. This layout ensures even light distribution across the pitch, optimising visibility for players and audiences. The lighting system consists of 324 inner-ring floodlights, complemented by 60 Quattro luminaires designed for stand lighting. These Quattro luminaires combine white and RGB LED chips, allowing for colourful light shows that enhance the atmosphere. Each light is controllable, giving BayArena the ability to create dynamic lighting effects instantly, adjusting from high-brightness for play to more subdued hues for pre- and post match displays. Lighting beyond the field Alongside the high-intensity floodlights, additional fixtures are designed to enhance the overall experience within the stadium. Each of the 36 roof segments features a set of four RGB and one red-only FL Arena floodlights, all of which are programmable to adapt to different lighting scenes. These lights ensure that the atmosphere remains vibrant throughout the game, creating a visual spectacle for fans. The lighting system is powered by carefully installed cables, including DMX lines, allowing precise control over each fixture. With the touch of a button, BayArena’s lighting engineers can adjust intensity, switch colours, and add lighting effects to create a unique, immersive experience. This capability not only meets UEFA’s strict requirements but also offers creative options for memorable lighting displays. For LEDVANCE and Bayer 04 Leverkusen, this project is more than a technical achievement; it is a shared commitment to delivering a high-quality, sustainable experience for fans and players alike. As Champions League fixtures approach, the stadium stands as a testament to the impact of innovative and responsible design in sports. Enquiries: www.ledvance.com

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LiD Q4 - 2024