Replacing Feijenoord Stadium lighting with a focus on Power Quality
HyTEPS was closely involved in determining Power Quality aspects during the recent replacement of stadium lighting at Feijenoord football Stadium. In addition to football matches, ‘De Kuip’ stadium also hosts concerts, conferences, and other events for tens of thousands of spectators.
Challenge
Some time ago, the stadium decided to switch to LED lighting. LED offers longer operational lifetimes and reduced energy consumption, meets current match broadcast requirements, and perfectly matches the stadium’s leading position. 144 lighting fixtures were replaced in four light poles – each comprising 36 lamps – plus 58 fixtures in the edge of the stadium roof. A change of this magnitude in an electrical system can have a significant impact on Power Quality.
Purpose
- Analyzing Power Quality factors before and after modification
- Verify measurements and the simulation model used
- Mapping and mitigating risks
Solution
Ensuring Power Quality in changing installations is essential to making the energy transition a success. Measuring Power Quality factors, implementing changes where necessary, and testing after each change avoids negative consequences – and costs. At De Kuip stadium, a baseline measurement was carried out, followed by simulations, changes to the installation, and validation.
Various Power-Quality aspects were included in the baseline measurement. All results of this measurement, together with extensive installation data, provide the basis for the simulation. Using the simulation model, it is not only possible to ensure the quality of the solution, but also to calculate expected savings. A match scenario was chosen for the baseline measurement and validation, and measurements were taken while a game was being played. There is only full load during a match. When (re)validating the installation after changes, it is important that the conditions are (virtually) the same as during the baseline measurement.
Two luminaires that were to be installed in the stadium were tested and characterization was carried out. This included harmonic current and inrush currents. The latter is important for selectivity: will the main switches or circuit breakers trip when lights are switched on? Lighting fixture measurements also took at Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and supraharmonics into account, and switching frequency was determined, among other things.
Power Quality aspects investigated during baseline measurement
- Voltage level
- Harmonic Volage
- Harmonic Current
- Imbalance
- Flicker
- Power / Power Factor
- Zero current
Results
During the baseline measurement, voltage was shown to be within legal requirements. Because the luminaire manufacturer’s requirements exceeded the standard, the voltage was reduced together with the grid operator. Subsequently, the new luminaires were installed by the contractor. Validation showed that the installation was working properly and that all modifications were producing the desired results. The model used was also validated. Because that model has been validated, it can be used again in the future, should a new modification or extension be required.
With a clear final report, HyTEPS indicated that we rated the probability of failure due to Power Quality as ‘low’, thus providing a good risk assessment. This is vital for a high-profile customer like Feijenoord Stadium.
- Demonstrated selectivity is guaranteed
- Demonstrated no excessive harmonic voltage is to be expected
- Demonstrated no dips are expected at switch-on
