A Guide to Tennis Court LED Floodlighting

LED floodlighting is a game-changer for tennis clubs and venues, allowing players to continue well after sunset and extending the usability of courts throughout the year.  In this guide, we explore the lighting requirements of the Lawn Tennis Association, benefits of LED floodlighting, estimated costs, and key considerations to help you make informed decisions for your facility.  

What Are the LTA Lighting Standards for Tennis Courts?

To ensure optimal visibility and player safety, the LTA recommendation for lighting standards are:

Principal Playing Area:

• Optimal: 500 Lux with uniformity of 0.7
• Minimum: 400 Lux with uniformity of 0.7

Total Playing Area:

• Optimal: 400 Lux with uniformity of 0.6
• Minimum: 300 Lux with uniformity of 0.6

Uniform lighting is crucial to prevent shadows and provide consistent visibility across the court.

At JHP Electrical Services we typically recommend:

• 200 Lux Level for Training, Local Competition and Recreational Play
• 400 Lux Level for Local or Regional Competition
• 500 Lux Level for National or International Competition

What Are the Benefits of LED Floodlighting for Tennis Venues?

The LTA identified that floodlighting offers significant advantages, making it a worthwhile investment for clubs and facilities:

1. Increased Membership and Retention
   The LTA estimates that tennis court facilities with LED floodlighting see, on average, a 50% increase in membership and improved retention rates 
2. Year-Round Coaching Opportunities
   Floodlit courts attract and retain top coaches, enabling year-round training sessions
3. Boost in Revenue
   With extended play hours, clubs can generate more income through memberships, pay-and-play options, and events
4. Extended Playing Time
   Between November and April, floodlighting can add up to 35% more playing hours, countering the short daylight hours.  For outdoor non-floodlit facilities, the hours per annum are 2,500 with a 35% weather allowance against 3,500 with a 35% weather allowance for outdoor facilities that are floodlit 

Why Choose LED Floodlighting?

The sports lighting market has shifted significantly towards LED technology due to its numerous benefits over traditional metal halide systems:

1. Sustainability
   LEDs consume less power, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
2. Durability
   LEDs have a longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs as they do not require frequent lamp replacements.
3. Superior Control
   Instant on/off functionality and dimming options allow for greater flexibility and energy savings.

How Much Does Tennis Court Floodlighting Cost?

Floodlighting installation costs vary depending on the number of courts and specific site conditions but a ballpark figure and an estimate for an individual court from sports lighting specialists, JHP Electrical can cost £17,000 to £48,000 for block of four courts. While initial costs can be high, the long-term savings on energy and maintenance, particularly with LED systems, often make them a cost-effective choice.

Do We Need Planning Consent for Tennis Court Floodlighting?

All UK floodlighting projects require formal planning consent. Local authorities evaluate applications based on lighting designs that adhere to LTA standards and minimise environmental impact.  Appointing sports lighting specialists, JHP Electrical Services, from the outset ensures that plans, drawings, and lighting specifications are properly prepared, helping to avoid delays or rejections by planning panels.

What Are the Key Design Considerations?

To create an effective and environmentally friendly floodlighting system, consider the following:

• Power Supply
  • Small venues (2–3 courts) may use a single-phase domestic power supply.
  • Larger venues (4+ courts) typically require a three-phase commercial supply.
• Ducting and Draw Pits
  • Install cable ducts and draw pits outside the playing area to protect power cables and simplify maintenance.
• Height of Columns and Luminaires
  • Column heights typically range from 6m to 10m.
  • Use luminaires with tilt angles under 35° to minimise light spillage and glare.
  • Employ louvres and shields for additional control near residential areas.
• Performance Standards
  • Ensure the system delivers high-quality colour rendition, minimal glare, and uniform lighting for safe play.

Why Choose JHP Electrical Services?

At JHP Electrical Services, we are commercial electricians and sports lighting specialists, providing services in the Lux level testing, planning, design, installation, repairs, and maintenance of floodlighting, and work throughout the UK.

As NICEIC approved electricians and members of The Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA), the UK's trade association for the sports and play construction industry, we deliver quality and expertise you can trust, and guarantee that your project will finish on time and within budget.

Are you ready to illuminate your courts and elevate your tennis facilities? Contact us or call us 020 8950 4643 on today to start planning your floodlighting project!

Back to resources