UPS – The Critical Role They Play In Event Stadia Operations

The event world has undergone a significant transformation in recent years due to the advancements in digital technology. Conferences, trade shows, sporting, music and other leisure-related activities are relying increasingly on ‘live streaming capabilities’ delivered through either social or video media.

Connecting the two worlds of virtual and physical has expanded reach, allowing audiences from far and wide to enjoy and share the moment as it happens. It has also allowed organisers to capitalise on other, previously unshared moments, pre-event, post-event and behind-the-scenes as the event progresses.

These integrated, media-rich experiences demand a constant and continual power supply. At no time, has the level of expectation been higher on event organisers and facilities managers that are tasked with providing seamless event experiences. Any loss of power, either localised or across the site, can affect broadcasting, live-streaming, lighting, signage, security systems, payment mechanisms and so much more, areas that all have a direct impact on visitor and user experience.

Backup Power Protection Is Key

An efficient backup power protection strategy is key to ensuring the ‘show goes on’ in an industry that relies heavily on continuous power. Stadiums and event arenas have embraced the use of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, integrating multiple units into their electrical infrastructure to support critical applications.

These vital pieces of equipment safeguard venues against the damage caused by a variety of power problems; protecting sensitive equipment against surges, spikes and sags while also offering an instantaneous emergency supply in the event of a total blackout.

An autonomous source of alternate power, the UPS system provides an interface between the utility and the sensitive load. When the incoming power drops below (or surges above) safe voltage levels, the UPS unit switches to DC battery power and then inverts it to AC power to support the connected equipment – effectively bridging the gap in supply.

How Secure Power Supports The Events Industry

Secure Power work with event stadia and arenas to supply both permanent and temporary power protection strategies. Permanent solutions that form part of the fixed electrical infrastructure are offered across the entire site, while short-term installations are available to support the flexible needs of a specific event.

Previous works have seen the company supply, install and decommission multiple UPS and PDU units for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, bringing together a team of just over 100 data engineers to carry out installation services within a rigid timeframe.

As a brand agnostic provider, Secure Power was able to choose the most appropriate solution for its client’s needs, selecting a system that offered a 98% efficiency level to reduce energy consumption and support the Games commitment to meeting its carbon footprint targets. In addition, the Secure Power team also offered full system monitoring and emergency cover throughout the duration of the event.

On closer inspection it is easy to see why event stadia have become so heavily dependent on these UPS systems. The world of professional sports is a whole new ballgame, no pun intended. Digital technology now drives fan engagement and has allowed clubs and organisations to expand their fan base globally, reaching new audiences far beyond those that could physically attend a match or competition in person. Live pay-per-view video that streams directly to fans has opened up additional revenue streams, allowing clubs to add thousands to bottom-line profits.

Digital Transformation In The Events Industry

Digital advertising boards situated around the stadium have also opened up fresh opportunities for both static and video advertising across a multitude of events. This not only brings in further income streams but also allows for the dissemination of information, allowing event staff to apply their time and focus to areas where they are needed the most.

The use of video conferencing technology has transformed exhibition and conference platforms, opening up an entire new world of virtual experiences. These have increased exponentially since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, as have the software companies that provide them. Delegates from around the world can now log in to listen to speakers on a ‘virtual’ basis, allowing companies the opportunity to expand their reach while still meeting their ‘green credentials’.

These styles and types of event are progressively reliant on a variety of devices. Delegates require constant access to laptops, tablets, mobile phones and handheld gadgets. Guest speakers and facilitators rely on live ‘real-time’ technology for the smooth delivery of presentations and Q&A sessions. All require the constant supply of continual power to avoid a negative user experience.

It is important not to overlook back-of-office operations within stadia environments. These are fundamental to the daily management of any successful business but particularly important to one that holds the lives of hundreds of thousands of people directly in its hands. Communications between front and back of house, welfare, security and safety systems need to remain operative – any temporary drop in lighting or failed security network may cause panic or put attendees/delegate lives at risk, whereas dropped connections can result in extreme user dissatisfaction, in turn leading to the demand for refunds or expensive rescheduling costs.

The role of a UPS system is becoming increasingly important within many businesses. For event stadia and arenas however they are absolutely critical. What may appear insignificant pieces of equipment are the key to ensuring all the many functions that occur within the daily life of an event stadia remain operational 24/7. They too, however, have their own requirements to remain functional. Such integral pieces of the electrical infrastructure need regular servicing and maintenance to support them – only then can they be relied on to provide the appropriate emergency power protection strategy they are expected to provide.

Secure Power provide bespoke maintenance and servicing plans that support both the temporary and fixed needs of event stadia UPS. For further information on these or to speak to a member of the team about your event requirements please get in touch with us on 0800-080-3118 or email [email protected].

Secure Power has been providing critical power solutions for over a decade and has an industry wide reputation for delivering first class backup power services. With preventative maintenance at the core of its business, Secure Power has its own versatile team of engineers, available nationwide, 24/7. The company offers a wide range of UPS end-to-end project management solutions alongside ongoing maintenance and service works, battery testing, removal and relocation.