Latest generation grow light systems for top sports fields

Stadium lighting that decides itself which light arm to turn on - and which not? A growing system that rotates with the sun while saving 25% of energy? FC Basel has this technology planned for the end of 2025. With the installation of the automated, modular and energy-efficient system from Stogger® Turf Care, the Swiss top club is fully committed to innovation and sustainability.

The cooperation between FC Basel and Stogger® did not start with a quick deal, but with a careful process. "We worked with head groundsman Arndt Valbert for months," says Florian Mans, Founder Stogger® Turf Care. "He already knew our work through other clubs and knew exactly what he wanted: not a show model, but proven quality. We were allowed to conduct tests on the field, make comparisons and above all: prove that our technology works better. With results!" 

What exactly was installed?

The project includes:

• 2 Booster 60's
• 2 Booster 80's
• 1 mobile 70C tent unit (canopy)
• 6 large Booster Carbon 460s

Each unit is equipped with carbon profiles - a striking innovation that is stronger than aluminum, much lighter, and more durable in use. "We use carbon not just for show, but because it is seven times stronger than aluminum. Less wear and tear ánd a longer lifespan."

Smarter light, less consumption

Where Stogger® really makes a difference is in energy consumption. Because although LED is known as energy-efficient, Florian says that is only a half-truth. "An LED unit often consumes as much energy as an HPS fixture, but gives twice as much light. So yes, it's more efficient, but not necessarily more economical." That is now changing with Booster Eco-Logic - a system that measures light intensity and adjusts it in real time. "Instead of always turning an entire unit on, we control the individual arms based on light sensors. Is the sun rotating across the field? Then automatically only the segments in the shade turn on - or at a lower light intensity. We can let the arms self adjust from 20% to 100%, depending on what is needed." The result? Up to 25% less energy consumption, with no loss of quality. And that counts - especially in the cold months, when extra infrared radiation is needed to keep the grass active and thus the units' energy consumption is higher than in other seasons.

Partners in light

The power of the system is not only in the control, but also in the light output itself. And for that, Stogger Turf Care is working with MechaTronix LED Grow Lights - one of the world's fastest-growing manufacturers in horticulture.

"MechaTronix builds the fixtures, we supply the controls, as well as engineering and building the complete lighting units. So all the technology comes together perfectly in one smart system. Together with Wageningen University, Test Center Hoogstraten and the HAS, among others, their lamps are continuously tested and refined," says Mans. "That enables us to guarantee the highest light output as well as efficiency in the sports market."

Locally built, globally deployable

Everything at Stogger is designed, assembled and tested in the Netherlands. Only a few smaller parts come from outside. That local approach ensures short lines of communication, fast delivery times and complete control over quality. Moreover, the technology is completely wirelessly controlled, which is not only convenient for groundsmen, but also ensures fewer cable breaks, maintenance and breakdowns. For FC Basel, the installation was built in phases. Not because of delays, but because Stogger was also growing rapidly at the time. Today, the standard delivery time is barely three months - from order to delivery.This collaboration is more than a technical upgrade. It is a signal to the industry. "Together with clubs like Genk and Botev Plovdiv, Basel wants to show that innovation, sustainability and field quality can go hand in hand," says Mans.

No show models. Well tools that win.

"We don't build show models, we build tools that really help groundsmen. Smart, economical, 'light' - and made to last." With this installation, FC Basel is setting a new standard in European field lighting. And shows once again why, in just 14 months, Stogger has grown from test partner at clubs such as Arsenal FC, Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham FC, Liverpool FC, Wimbledon AELTC, AS Monaco, OCG Nice and Olympique Marseille to supplier at clubs such as KRC Genk, FC Volendam, Botev Plovdiv, Bayer Leverkusen and thus: FC Basel. "Soon we will start a project in the U.S., in the context of 2026. I'm not allowed to say much about that yet, but believe me: it will be big. One thing is certain: we are here to stay AND to win the LED transition from the establishment - with the most advanced grow light system available in the industry today," Mans concludes.