Projectbet365 StadiumLocationStoke, UKSystems IntegratorElite Control Services (ECS)Submitted ByPharos Architectural Controls
Stoke City FC’s home stadium required a complete upgrade to the outdated lighting and controls, with the aim of elevating fan engagement while meeting the demanding technical standards of elite football.
The brief was clear: achieve Premier League-standard illumination, reduce energy consumption, and introduce flexible RGBW lighting capable of transforming the stadium environment before, during and after matches. The project highlights the flexibility and robustness of its technology in demanding sporting environments.
Sustainability was a key driver for the project. The upgraded floodlighting system now delivers 1650 lux across the pitch while achieving a reported 51% reduction in energy consumption, supporting the club’s long-term operational and environmental goals.
The large scale of this project created a layer of complexity, with the lighting needing to possess the capabilities to run dynamic lighting sequences while remaining within the Premier League standard of illumination.
At the heart of the lighting system is a Pharos Designer control solution comprising a two-universe Designer LPC controller, a Designer RIO A remote device, and three Designer BPS keypad wall stations. Together, these provide a powerful yet intuitive platform for managing complex lighting scenes across the stadium, from broadcast-critical pitch lighting to immersive architectural effects.
The LPC delivers the processing power and reliability required for large-scale venues, running multiple timelines and scenes simultaneously. This allows Stoke City FC to programme dynamic sequences for player walk-ons, pre-match build-up and post-match moments, while maintaining consistent, regulation-compliant lighting levels for live sport.
RGBW under-bowl lighting, advertising boards and pitch-side screens further extend the visual impact, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for supporters inside and outside the stadium.
Delivering a dramatic enhancement to both matchday presentation and operational efficiency, this project demonstrates how intelligent lighting control can elevate fan engagement while meeting the demanding technical standards of elite football.
The fully integrated RGBW LED installation is controlled by the solution comprising a two-universe LPC controller, a RIO A remote device, and three BPS keypad wall stations. The intuitive system is capable of managing complex, large-scale lighting scenes and also provides ease of operation.
The Designer BPS keypads have been strategically installed in the Match Control room, Media Suite and Groundsman’s Shed, giving staff simple, tactile access to pre-set scenes and manual overrides when needed. With clear button labelling and LED feedback, the BPS stations ensure confident operation even during high-pressure matchday scenarios.
The Pharos solution provides the capabilities for Stoke City FC to programme dynamic lighting scenes across the stadium, creating an immersive experience for supporters and maintaining consistent, regulation-compliant lighting levels for live sport.
The result is a future-ready lighting control system that enhances the spectacle of football, improves efficiency behind the scenes, and reinforces the bet365 Stadium as a modern venue capable of delivering unforgettable matchday experiences.
