Solar-powered floodlighting deployment in third-world countries

Philips recently announced the release of a new solar-powered LED floodlighting system that is designed to enable people with little or no access to electricity to enjoy playing or watching sport long into the night.

The system is claimed to be the world’s first dedicated solar-powered LED floodlighting (intense beams of light) solution.

Philips stated that some 1.6 billion people in the world today are unable to connect to a regular electricity supply. The new 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. It 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.

Using the latest energy-efficient LED lighting technology, the fully portable system can illuminate areas up to 40 x 20 m with bright white light. 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 sufficiently rugged to withstand the extreme rigours of some of the more challenging and remote terrains in the world.

“This is a fantastic initiative,” says Kanu, 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 wellbeing considerably.”