Venues like stadiums have long been associated with excitement, entertainment, competition, camaraderie, and the list goes on. But behind the glitz and glamour lies a significant contributor to the global carbon footprint. Teams crisscrossing the globe, fans travelling far and wide to catch their favourite celebrities and games, and the logistics of hosting international events all add up to an immense environmental impact.
Yet, as environmental consciousness gains prominence and the urgency of climate action becomes increasingly apparent, industries worldwide are actively seeking innovative ways to mitigate their carbon footprint.
In this article, we focus on the energy demands of venues like stadiums and explore strategies to achieve carbon emission reduction for businesses, enthusiasts and the environment.
Energy Demands of Venues Like Stadiums
Stadiums, with their bustling energy and electrifying atmosphere, demand a substantial amount of power to fuel the excitement. From the floodlights that illuminate the field to the sound systems that reverberate throughout the stands, the energy requirements of these venues are significant. Moreover, the sprawling infrastructure of modern stadiums extends far beyond the playing field or stage. VIP lounges and state-of-the-art training facilities all require constant power to operate, adding to the venue's overall energy consumption.
Traditionally, these energy needs have been met through conventional sources such as fossil fuels. However, in response to growing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable solutions, venues are increasingly turning to renewable energy sources to meet their power needs. For instance, during Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres World Tour in Singapore, the band not only entertained their countless fans but also made efforts to minimise their carbon footprint. Utilising innovative technologies such as kinetic dance floors and energy-storing stationary bikes at their performance arena in the National Stadium, Coldplay and the event organiser actively fuelled batteries that powered various elements of the show.
Solar power systems, in particular, have emerged as a viable alternative, offering a clean and abundant source of electricity to make the shift towards sustainable stadiums.
Learn more: Solar Energy: The Next Big Thing For A Sustainable Future
A Win-Win for Stadiums and Sustainability
By harnessing the power of the sun, stadiums and similar arenas can significantly reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources and carbon footprint. These solar-powered venue solutions also send a strong message to fans, sponsors, and the broader community, signalling that the stadium is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint and contributing to a greener future.
The National Stadium in Singapore, which hosts multiple large-scale events like World Cup qualifier matches and internationally acclaimed concerts, exemplifies this ethos. With approximately 4,500 square meters of solar panels adorning its exterior, the stadium absorbs sunlight, generating an impressive 707 kilowatts-peak of electricity. This amount is substantial enough to power 146 4-room HDB flats and offset the energy consumed by the stadium's cooling system for an entire year!
Moreover, the integration of solar power systems can enhance the overall fan experience. Sustainable features such as solar-powered LED lighting and energy-efficient HVAC systems not only reduce the venue's environmental impact but also create a more comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for spectators and concertgoers.
Take, for instance, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where surplus energy generated by solar panels is utilised to power stadium lighting and other areas of the venue. This innovative approach not only showcases the practical benefits of solar energy but also demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the fan experience while prioritising sustainability.
In essence, solar energy adoption in stadiums represents a win-win scenario for all stakeholders involved. Fans can enjoy their favourite sporting events or concerts in a more sustainable and environmentally conscious setting, sponsors can align their brands with a positive and forward-thinking image, and venue operators can reap the financial and operational benefits of renewable energy.
Powering Passion, Sustaining the Planet
Beyond sustainable stadiums, businesses across various industries can also play a role in mitigating their environmental impact by installing solar power systems.
Learn more: How Embracing Solar Energy Can Boost Brand Perception
Union’s solar solutions present a promising opportunity for commercial building owners to embark on this path towards sustainability. For example, the Power Purchase Agreement eliminates the need for upfront investment costs, allowing businesses to benefit from the power of solar energy without financial barriers.
With Union Solar handling the financing, installation, and maintenance of the solar power system, businesses can seamlessly transition to renewable energy while focusing on their core operations.