Philips Unveils Solar LED Floodlighting in Time for FIFA 2010 World Cup

Imagine if lights went out in the middle of a match between Brazil’s Samba Boys and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana during quarters at the FIFA 2010 World Cup in South Africa? What would follow – riots, probably.

For ardent soccer fans, take heart, Philips Lighting is coming to the rescue, courtesy of the sun, with a tinge of technology.

The Dutch electronics manufacturer and global leader in healthcare, lifestyle and lighting innovations has just unveiled the world’s first dedicated solar-powered LED floodlighting (intense beams of light) solution.

The new innovation comes in handy for South African local organizing committee (LOC), the host of FIFA 2010 World Cup as the country attempts to green the event on its inaugural round on the sunny continent where energy from the sun is in plenty but with less means to harness.

Simon Poulter, a Philips spokesman says the solar LED lighting system will enable people with little or no access to electricity to enjoy playing or watching sport long into the night. It is a fact that some 1.6 billion people in the world today are unable to connect to a regular electricity supply.

The new Philips system will enable communities in developing and developed markets alike to participate in social, educational, cultural and commercial activities after sunset – including the world’s most popular sport, football.

Launched Monday at simultaneous press events in the Netherlands and South Africa, the system is available as a fully portable solution. Using the very latest energy-efficient LED lighting technology, the system can illuminate areas up to 40×20m with bright white light.

Advanced battery cells provide up to eight hours of floodlighting on a single solar charge – the equivalent of two or three full evening football matches or training sessions. The system is also highly sustainable, with a rugged design able to withstand the extreme rigors of life in some of the more challenging and remote terrains in the world.

“This is a fantastic initiative,” says Kanu Nwanko, the Nigerian international footballer, who is working with Philips to help promote the floodlighting system around the world.

“Football is a universal language, especially in Africa. Enabling children and adults to be active in playing football and other sports, even once the sun goes down, will enrich their lives, their health and their well-being considerably.”

“Our new solar-powered LED floodlighting solution is a wonderful example of Philips’ application of meaningful innovation based on our insight and understanding of people’s needs,” says Marc de Jong, CEO of the Professional Luminaires business of Philips Lighting.

“I am extremely proud by this application of our expertise in LED lighting and sports lighting in particular, helping to bring the fun and enjoyment of sports to communities where a lack of electricity limits participation.”

The new solar LED floodlighting system is available to order now from Philips on a project basis. Philips can provide a total solution including the LED floodlights, portable poles, solar panels and batteries, or just a set of floodlights.

The system can also be used for non-sporting applications in locations without access to an electricity grid, such as evening classes in remote villages, safety and security, shops or outdoor markets, or emergency lighting for disaster situations.

Image credit: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.