Theatre cuts energy use by 80% with lighting upgrade

Philips has provided The National Theatre of Ghana with a makeover, using its latest connected LED technology. The upgrade enhances the theatre’s distinctive architectural structure while also cutting energy consumption by up to 80%.

The National Theatre of Ghana opened in 1992 and is a hub of culture and heritage. The National Theatre has a complicated construction moulding and novel exterior features. When looked at from a distance, the whole structure looks like a gigantic ship or a seagull spreading its wings.

Philips’ lighting concept is focused on highlighting the significance of this iconic building as an architectural masterpiece and as a source of national pride to Ghana, and in so doing assist with the building’s energy-saving performance.

The connected LED lighting technology used by Philips creates more light, while making it more focused and controlled. Philips used its Vaya LED lighting solutions and tailored them to the specific needs of the National Theatre of Ghana, which included devising effective lighting while respecting the authenticity of the building. The lighting needed to enhance the beauty of the theatre without at any time overwhelming it.

The new connected lighting system covers the 78 m base platform of the National Theatre and illuminates the entire area of the central ship, as well as the columns supporting the ship. With a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, the new Philips lighting fixtures last much longer and reduce the need for periodic replacement. Each installed luminaire has its own IP address, making it feasible to produce up to 16 million different lighting colours as well as remotely monitoring the performance of each light point.

Connected LED lighting innovations are providing cities with completely new opportunities in the areas of energy efficiency and city beautification — policymakers and governments the world over are realising the benefits, said Felix Darko, General Manager–Lighting, Philips West Africa. The LED lighting system at the National Theatre of Ghana not only improves the commercial attractiveness of the facility, but will also contribute to the reduction of energy consumption in Accra, said Darko.

“This project mirrors the revitalisation that is happening within the theatre; the LED lighting is complementing the changes that are occurring on the inside. It is making visible the work of our highly talented contributors and artists who perform at the theatre regularly. The state-of-the-art digital lighting technology ensures we have a world-class theatre that is aware of its environment, while also helping us meet our demand for energy efficiency. We can’t wait to show the world the transformation on the inside and outside,” said Amy Appiah Frimpong, acting executive director, National Theatre of Ghana.

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Image courtesy of Philips