Stadiums managing peak loads, inactivity and increasing sustainability requirements
Sports arenas, stadiums, and event halls are venues where energy, emotions, and unforgettable moments come together. While the atmosphere in front of the audience is electrifying, behind the scenes, operations are becoming increasingly complex. Strict licensing requirements—such as those imposed by UEFA—mean that robust sustainability management is now essential for game operations. For many event venues, this represents one of their biggest challenges today.
An immense technical balancing act
Supply systems must reliably handle both extended periods of inactivity and sudden peak loads. They must operate reliably, hygienically, and without failures. Only when everything runs smoothly behind the scenes can the memorable experiences that visitors expect be delivered.
At the same time, operators face enormous economic challenges. According to sustainability analysis company ClearVUE.Business, arenas reach peak power consumption of up to 10 megawatts during individual events, which is comparable to the demand of around 5,000 households, while the same facilities are virtually idle on non-game days. These extreme fluctuations drive up costs and require systems that manage energy and water efficiently and proactively.
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Contact our expertsMore than just technology: a system that empowers event venues
At Wilo, we see arenas and stadiums as vibrant overall systems—spaces with minimal water needs on quiet days, yet requiring peak performance during major events. Our modern pumps and pump systems are designed to exactly meet these dynamic demands.
They provide reliable water supply and technical infrastructure across central areas such as:
- Sanitary areas
- VIP areas
- Heating and air-conditioning technology
- Lawn irrigation
- Wastewater and rainwater processes
- Firefighting
Our solutions work behind the scenes like the "team behind the team"—almost invisible to visitors—but their impact is noticeable at all times: in stable processes, reliable technology, and smooth event operations.
Drawing on extensive experience from numerous European sports venues, Wilo connects water and energy systems to balance peak loads, conserve resources, and significantly reduce both CO₂ emissions and operating costs. Supported by digital services, the Wilo-Energy Audit*and transparent monitoring tools, this comprehensive approach makes arenas not only more efficient, but also more sustainable.
¹The Wilo Energy Audit does not comply with the EN 16247-1 standard and therefore does not fulfil the requirement to carry out a legally mandated energy audit in accordance with the relevant national implementation provisions of the EU Energy Efficiency Directive.
Expertise throughout the entire lifecycle
Whether it is a new build or a modernisation project, we support every arena from the initial concept, through installation and commissioning, to regular maintenance, optimisation, and prompt assistance in the event of a service call. This ensures that the infrastructure remains reliable, safe, and fully prepared for the next major event at all times.
Our highlight applications for stadiums and arenas
Whether it is a football match, concert, or trade show, our solutions cover all essential applications to ensure smooth and reliable event operations.
Wastewater collection and transport
High performance in the hottest phase
Enormous increases in wastewater volume occur, especially during half-time breaks or at the end of an event. Our solutions ensure that everything operates smoothly—without backflow, failures, or overloads.
- Efficient wastewater removal, even during short-term peak loads
- Reliable drainage in heavily used sanitary areas
- Safe solutions for areas below the backflow level
Rainwater utilisation
Sustainability of valuable resources
Many arenas have large roof areas, providing ideal conditions for the intelligent utilisation of rainwater. Our systems help to conserve resources and reduce operating costs.
- Efficient collection and utilisation of rainwater, for example, for lawn care, toilet flushing, or outdoor cleaning
- Reducing the demand on the water supply during event days
- Reliable drainage of large volumes of water during heavy rainfall to protect event infrastructure and the public sewer system
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
Comfort that creates atmosphere
Whether in summer heat or winter cold, the indoor climate of an event venue shapes the entire visitor experience. Our pump systems enable efficient supply to all areas.
- Comfortable temperature and air supply for spectators, teams, and staff
- Efficient heating and cooling distribution for VIP areas, boxes, backstage areas, and media rooms
- Flexible adjustment to event schedules and periods of vacancy for reduced energy consumption
Drinking water circulation
Drinking water hygiene for large supply networks
Hygiene is essential in extensive buildings with irregular usage. Our solutions protect water quality and help to reduce resource consumption.
- Minimisation of stagnation zones in long pipe networks
- Reduced flushing requirements and thermal disinfection to prevent Legionella formation, with lower water consumption and operating costs
- Ensuring consistent hygienic conditions from the entrance to the hospitality area
Firefighting
Safety without compromise
Large crowds demand the highest level of safety. Our systems ensure that the firefighting water supply is always ready for use.
- Reliable provision of firefighting water for large buildings
- High operational reliability through robust, permanently available systems
- Stable performance, even with long pipe runs and high pressure, as commonly found in arenas
- Safe separation of drinking water and firefighting water systems to maintain the hygienic quality of the drinking water supply at all times
Water distribution and boosting
Availability at any time
When a stadium fills within minutes, water demand increases rapidly. Our systems ensure that sufficient water is available throughout, whether in public areas, changing rooms, or hospitality zones.
- Stable water supply across the entire site, even when many sanitary facilities are in use simultaneously
- Precise pressure control for highly variable loads during everyday use, set-up phases, and events
- Hygienically safe supply through complex pipe networks with multiple consumption points
Successful projects across Europe
From football stadiums and multifunctional arenas to traditional international venues, our solutions demonstrate their effectiveness every day. They support more sustainable operating methods, reduce resource consumption, and strengthen the infrastructure of leading event locations.
Borussia Dortmund SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, Germany
For many years, Dortmund’s SIGNAL IDUNA PARK has relied on pump technology from Wilo to ensure the smooth operation of Germany’s largest football stadium. With a capacity of 81,365 spectators, the venue places enormous demands on supply and stability. Our high-efficiency pumps provide a reliable supply of water and heating for the changing rooms, VIP areas, and the pitch heating system.
The highly variable water demand between match play and half-time presents a particular challenge, which is expertly managed by intelligently controlled systems. This ensures that stadium operations remain reliable, even at times of highest demand—day after day, match after match.
Allianz Stadium, Austria
With around 28,000 seats, the Allianz Stadium in Vienna is one of Austria's most modern football arenas with pump and system solutions from Wilo installed for efficient operation. Rainwater from the stadium roofs is collected by powerful pumps and used for lawn care, significantly reducing the use of precious drinking water.
At the same time, Wilo high-efficiency systems supply heating and ventilation technology in VIP zones, cabins, and other functional areas. Lifting units also ensure safe sewage disposal even below the backflow level. The result is stadium operation that is both ecologically and technically future-oriented.
Croke Park, Ireland
With a capacity of 82,300 people, Croke Park is Ireland’s largest stadium and has relied on Wilo’s expertise for many years. Our pressure-boosting systems manage the stadium’s entire water supply, from hot and chilled water to the sprinkler system on the pitch.
Wilo Ireland also provides on-site support for numerous pump and pressure-maintaining systems, ensuring safe operation through regular maintenance—even during international sporting events. High efficiency, robust technology, and reliable service make Wilo a key partner in the day-to-day running of the stadium.
Customised service solutions for stadiums, arenas, and multipurpose halls
Reliability is essential for stadiums and arenas. Our services ensure smooth operations, minimise the risk of failures, and enhance the energy performance of your infrastructure. These include bespoke maintenance plans, digital monitoring solutions, and comprehensive analyses such as the Wilo Energy Audit.
Wilo-Energy Audit
Identify untapped energy saving potential and develop customised solutions for sustainable efficiency.
Together we can achieve great things
Stadiums and arenas are stages for big emotions. They are places where communities are built, unforgettable moments occur, and stories are created that will be remembered for years to come. But for an event to become a true experience, it requires a company working quietly behind the scenes—with sustainability, reliability, and a forward-looking approach.
We support event venues in establishing exactly this foundation. With solutions that conserve resources, enhance operational reliability, and prove that today’s technology can do more than simply function. It carries responsibility, shapes the experience, and transforms modern arenas into places that not only inspire, but also make a strong statement for sustainability.
FAQ | Frequently asked questions about arenas, stadiums, and multi-purpose halls
How can stadiums and arenas measurably reduce their energy consumption?
The energy consumption of sports and event venues fluctuates greatly. On non-event days, consumption is minimal, while event days create significant peak loads. Substantial savings are possible if systems are not permanently designed for maximum demand. Modern, demand-driven solutions adapt precisely to load changes, significantly reducing electricity and water consumption. The Wilo-Energy Audit clearly identifies these opportunities and shows which measures—from intelligent controls to pump cycling—offer the greatest potential.
Why do pumps play such a large role in the sustainability of stadiums?
Pumps operate almost continuously in the background and are major consumers in water and heating loops. Consequently, they directly affect energy use, CO₂ emissions, and water demand. Modern, high-efficiency systems and digital monitoring can significantly reduce these impacts—an important advantage, especially given the strict sustainability requirements of European associations.
How can stadiums lower water consumption while maintaining comfort?
Event days cause significant peaks in water use, while infrastructure often sits idle on non-event days. Rainwater utilisation, efficient cold water circulation, and demand-controlled supply solutions can reduce water consumption without sacrificing comfort. This ensures a stable, hygienic supply and lowers overall consumption.
What are the challenges regarding drinking water hygiene and quality in large arenas?
Irregular use often leads to stagnation in extensive pipe networks, increasing the risk of Legionella bacteria. Modern circulation systems address this with automated flushing at a central location, removing the need for manual flushing at extraction points. With digital monitoring, operators can track temperatures, flow paths, and anomalies in real time to ensure consistently safe water quality.
Can Wilo modernise existing systems without disrupting ongoing operations?
Yes. Modernisation measures are coordinated with event schedules and visitor flows, allowing operations to continue. Low-investment actions, such as replacing outdated pumps, deliver significant savings without structural changes. Many efficiency improvements can be implemented with minimal disruption and deliver noticeable results quickly.
What role do digital solutions play for stadium operators?
Digital systems enable real-time monitoring of all critical pump functions. Early fault detection allows for planned maintenance and helps prevent operational failures. Additionally, the data supports improved operating strategies and facilitates reporting for licensing and sustainability compliance.
What distinguishes new construction projects from modernisation projects?
New buildings enable optimally coordinated planning of all water and energy loops. Existing facilities, on the other hand, benefit greatly from modernisation: even modern arenas often do not meet today's efficiency standards. Targeted measures such as intelligent control technology, sustainability-based water management, or digital monitoring can significantly improve operations without changing the basic structure.
Which areas of a stadium are Wilo solutions particularly suitable for?
Our solutions cover nearly all water-related areas, including: sanitary facilities, VIP and hospitality zones, lawn irrigation, technical rooms, catering, heating/cooling, rainwater and sewage systems, and firefighting water. This holistic approach supports the entire infrastructure needed for smooth event operations.
How quickly do modernisation measures pay for themselves?
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Together, we strengthen the performance and reliability of your event location.
Contact our expertsStrongly networked for the future of sports and modern event venues
Wilo is actively engaged in key networks and partnerships to shape the future of arenas, stadiums, and multi-purpose halls. As a sustainability sponsor of Borussia Dortmund and the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks, we support clubs and operators in making their facilities demonstrably more sustainable. Through close cooperation with experts and stakeholders from industry, our customers benefit directly from innovative solutions and practical expertise.
