Why it matters: The new lights will reduce the club's operational costs by up to 60%, according to co-chairman Andy Skinner, providing financial stability whilst ensuring the club's facilities are "second to none".
The details: The six-week installation was completed by Halliday Lighting, who brought the works forward at a week's notice after the old floodlights failed.
The Premier League Stadium Fund contributed 70% of the £40,000 cost, with Ipswich Town FC providing the remaining 30%.
The new LED system is National League compliant and serves players from age 16 through to the first team.
What they're saying: Andy Skinner, co-chairman of Ipswich Wanderers, said: "The new flood lights are a game changer for the club. Their installation alone will reduce operational costs by 60% which ensure the financial stability. Not only do we benefit financially, it brings the facilities up to date and provides facilities [that are] second to none in Ipswich. They are national league complaint, and future-proof the club for many years to come."
He added: "Discussions on the need for the lighting upgrade started some 6 years ago so to start the process in May this year and have them operating by October was a fantastic achievement for all involved, including Halliday, our supplier."
Sam Thompson, Business Development Manager at Halliday Lighting, said: "It was an absolute pleasure to work with the Andy and the team at the club, due to the old failing system it was critical that we could provide the club with a quick turnaround. Andy and the team clearly have big plans for growth at the club, and as an avid football fan I was delighted we could help club with a small part on this journey."
The bigger picture: The lights were unveiled during Tuesday's Suffolk Premier Cup match against local rivals Stowmarket Town, with the Kesgrave Ultras in full voice. However, Stowmarket spoiled the party with a 2-1 victory after a late penalty miss from Wanderers.
The club has recently appointed Andy Skinner as co-chairman, with plans to increase community engagement including launching a mascot programme with local schools. With several young players who came through the academy ranks on display, it's an exciting time for the club that was relegated last season after back-to-back promotions.
For context: The Premier League LED Floodlight Fund, part of the Premier League Stadium Fund, is aimed at clubs in the National League System as well as tier one to four women's football clubs. LED floodlights are more energy efficient, more cost-effective to maintain, better for the environment, and allow more flexibility when setting light levels.
Ipswich Wanderers' original floodlights were switched on in September 1994 in a match against Ipswich Town.
The bottom line: After years of planning and six weeks of installation, Wanderers have secured a lighting upgrade that promises to reduce costs, future-proof the club's facilities and light up the Doucy for years to come.
