LIGHTING
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Powering progress: smarter energy, safer systems, better light A s South Africa continues to address changing energy needs, the discussion is no longer solely from merely generating power to using it intelligently.
Alongside this change, the importance of strong electrical protection cannot be overstated. Earthing, lightning, and surge protection systems form the foundation of electrical safety, yet they are often neglected until a failure occurs. With the growing integration of sensitive electronic equipment and renewable energy systems, the risks linked to poor grounding or insufficient surge protection are heightened. A well-designed protection system not only defends infrastructure but also ensures continuity, minimizes downtime, and safeguards long-term investments. Equally transformative is the evolution of lighting. No longer just a functional necessity, lighting now plays a vital role in energy efficiency, productivity, and environmental impact. The widespread adoption of LED technology has already achieved significant energy savings, but
about keeping the lights on; it’s about powering our future more efficiently, safely, and sustainably. Across sectors, three key areas are increasingly shaping the electrical landscape: solar and energy efficiency, earthing and surge protection, and lighting innovation. The rise of solar adoption marks one of the most notable shifts in recent years. What started as a response to energy insecurity has evolved into a broader movement towards energy independence and sustainability. However, solar is only part of the solution. True efficiency depends on how energy is generated, stored, and utilised. Businesses and households alike are becoming more conscious of the need to optimise consumption through smarter system design, efficient components, and load management. The emphasis is shifting
to meet current needs but also to build resilient, efficient systems capable of adapting to future demands. By combining innovation with safety and sustainability, the electrical sector is well-positioned to support South Africa’s ongoing development. The future of energy relies on a range of solutions rather than just one; working together to develop systems that are efficient, secure, and durable. For those aiming to implement these solutions effectively, working with a trusted electrical distributor like Voltex, which offers a comprehensive range of products and expertise, can make all the difference.
the next frontier lies in intelligent lighting systems. From occupancy sensors to daylight harvesting and smart controls, lighting is becoming more adaptive, reducing unnecessary consumption while enhancing user experience. Importantly, these three areas are not isolated; they are interconnected parts of a modern electrical ecosystem. A solar installation lacking proper surge protection is vulnerable. An energy-efficient lighting system without smart control is incomplete. A building without adequate earthing jeopardises the integrity of every connected system. As the industry evolves, the focus must remain on quality, compliance, and innovative design. The goal is not only
The rise of solar adoption marks one of the most notable shifts in recent years. What started as a response to energy insecurity has evolved into a broader movement towards energy independence and sustainability.
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Beka Schréder sets a new benchmark for stadium lighting in Africa
enables customised lighting scenes, enhancing the spectator experience and supporting a range of sports and entertainment events. The installation and certification process was a collaborative effort involving stadium management, lighting engineers, and FIFA’s technical team. This partnership highlighted the importance of cross- disciplinary expertise in achieving such a high standard. It set a precedent for future sports infrastructure projects across Africa. Central to this success is the installation of the OMNIBLAST floodlighting solution. Designed to deliver exceptional illumination performance, OMNIBLAST ensures optimal visibility for players, officials, broadcasters, and spectators. It meets the strict technical and quality requirements established by FIFA. Looking ahead, DHL Stadium’s success is likely to motivate other venues across Africa. More will aim for similar progress in sports lighting and infrastructure. By establishing a new standard for excellence, the stadium shows how investment in technology can promote wider development within the sports sector. Our team remains committed to advancing lighting technology through continuous research and development. We strive to provide progressively better solutions for sports venues worldwide. We believe that offering first-class facilities is vital for nurturing talent and creating unforgettable moments for athletes and fans alike. The certification process involved rigorous testing. We verified lighting performance, uniformity, glare control, and overall compliance with international broadcasting and sporting
DHL Stadium has reached a remarkable milestone. It has become the first venue in the Southern Hemisphere—and the very first in Africa—to achieve FIFA field certification under the prestigious “FIFA Quality Programme for Floodlights – FIFA Quality Pro” standard. This groundbreaking certification not only enhances DHL Stadium’s reputation on the global stage but also emphasises its dedication to sustainability. It further highlights Africa’s swift adoption of innovative sports technology. The recognition is anticipated to attract more international events to the continent. This will create greater opportunities for local athletes, sports professionals, and fans to enjoy world-class competitions at home. FIFA’s Quality Pro standard for floodlights signifies the highest level of excellence in sports venue lighting. It guarantees that stadiums deliver consistent, high-quality illumination, meeting the demanding requirements of international tournaments, live broadcasts, and large-scale spectator events. This level of certification is generally reserved for only the most advanced facilities worldwide. Achieving this milestone represents a major advancement for sports infrastructure on the continent and reinforces Africa’s capacity to meet and surpass global standards for professional sporting venues. The advanced OMNIBLAST system incorporates energy-efficient LED technology, sophisticated control systems, and precisely engineered optics. These innovations guarantee high-quality illumination. They also provide considerable energy savings and lower maintenance needs over time. The system’s flexibility
this landmark project, we are proud to contribute to a development that not only elevates a world-class venue but also sets a new benchmark for stadium lighting across Africa and beyond. This milestone demonstrates ongoing dedication to innovation, quality, and performance. It guarantees that modern sports venues are well-equipped to provide exceptional experiences both on and off the field.
standards. Achieving FIFA Quality Pro certification confirms that the lighting installation at DHL Stadium can support top-tier international matches and televised events. DHL Stadium’s recognition stands as a testament to innovation, collaboration, and shared vision. This milestone opens the door to a new era of sporting excellence across Africa. World-class standards will become the norm rather than the exception. As the lighting manufacturer behind
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Looking ahead, DHL Stadium’s success is likely to motivate other venues across Africa. More will aim for similar progress in sports lighting and infrastructure.
SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS
MAY 2026
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