The “smart stadium” gains traction
ABB, a global leader in electrification, automation and robotics technologies, is driving the transformation of traditional sports venues into fully integrated smart ecosystems.
Through a comprehensive approach, the company connects all electrical components into a unified network, allowing lighting, climate control, security and energy management to operate in sync and at maximum efficiency. The “smart stadium” concept is gaining traction as clubs, operators and event organizers face dual pressure to reduce operating costs and meet increasingly stringent environmental demands from fans, regulators and sponsors.
ABB’s smart building solutions optimize energy consumption, enhance the spectator experience and minimize environmental impact in urban areas. Modern stadiums are moving beyond their historical role as occasional entertainment spaces—whether for sports or live events—to become platforms for technological innovation and sustainability.
ABB’s i-bus® KNX system, based on the open KNX standard widely used in building automation, sits at the core of this approach. It integrates all electrical elements of a stadium into a single network, enabling advanced tools for efficient energy use and the gradual incorporation of renewable sources.
A Deloitte Insights study found that the global smart stadium market surpassed $8 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $38 billion by 2033, driven by demand for efficiency and enhanced fan experiences.
Research from Duke University indicates that a professional stadium can require between 5 and 10 megawatts (MW) during an event—roughly equivalent to the electricity consumption of about 5,000 average U.S. homes. ABB’s technology enables comprehensive management of lighting—from locker rooms and the playing field to stands and VIP areas—as well as climate control, security and power. Its energy-saving algorithms assess the time of day, natural light and grid load in real time, ensuring optimal operations regardless of the event schedule or external conditions.
Several high-profile venues have already adopted these solutions:
- El Sadar (Pamplona, Spain; renovated 2019–2021): Expanded capacity to 23,500 spectators with modernized electrical infrastructure. ABB supplied modular System pro E Power systems, ComfortLine panels and next-generation protection equipment in collaboration with local partners.
- Generali Arena (Vienna, Austria): Networked lighting, blinds, heating, air conditioning and ventilation to achieve significant energy savings. The installation includes dry-type transformers aligned with European efficiency standards.
- Sports infrastructure in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil): ABB provides equipment for lighting networks and power supply at the Deodoro Complex, Copacabana, Barra da Tijuca, the Sambadrome, Maracanã and Maracanãzinho.
- Skagerak Arena (Skien, Norway): Covered with 5,700 square meters of solar modules (800 kWp nominal). ABB contributes battery storage and energy management systems to maximize renewable use even on cloudy days.
- Tissot Arena (Biel, Switzerland): Home to the world’s largest solar plant integrated into a stadium, with 16,500 square meters of panels—roughly the size of two soccer fields. It produces enough annual energy to supply about 500 average Swiss households.
- Erta slope (San Vigilio di Marebbe, Italy): Optimizes artificial snow production for the Alpine Ski World Cup using ABB Ability™ Energy Manager, TechnoAlpin snow cannons and remote monitoring that reduces costs in real time.
Investment in sports infrastructure—stadiums, fields and training centers—continues to trend upward worldwide. Deloitte forecasts that by 2025, more than 300 stadiums will have begun renovations or new construction, with nearly 50% concentrated in North America and Europe.
These developments generate broad socioeconomic benefits: governments and communities can partner with private investors to complement projects with transportation and local resources, amplifying the impact of sports. Against a backdrop of rising energy costs and climate commitments, ABB’s approach positions stadiums not only as high-performance venues but also as strategic assets for long-term sustainability and operational efficiency.