University of Delaware Athletics
Upgraded LED Lights Installed in the Bob Carpenter Center
10/7/2026 11:50:00 AM | Delaware Athletics
NEWARK, Del. – University of Delaware Department of Athletics has installed new LED lights in the Bob Carpenter Center, the department announced Wednesday. The project, funded by a grant from Energize Delaware, will allow for higher sustainability, lower energy costs, and a more impactful gameday experience for volleyball, men's basketball, and women's basketball. The projected calculations estimate that the project will reduce the energy consumption of the existing fixtures by 64-percent.
"We are so grateful to Energize Delaware for partnering with us on this project," Director of Athletics & Campus Recreation Jordan Skolnick said. "Providing an enhanced gameday experience and being more sustainable are two important initiatives for us that are values aligned, so being able to do it together made it a great opportunity for us."
Designed by Musco Lighting, the new lighting system uses precisely aimed Total Light Control—TLC for LED™ fixtures to enhance the player and spectator experience for NCAA Division I basketball and volleyball, while also helping the University to conserve energy and support flexible venue usage beyond athletics.
"This project has been a dream for many. I am glad that it came together with not just interest from Athletics, but across the campus and larger Delaware community." University of Delaware Director for the Office of Sustainability Jeffrey Summerhays said. "Like the unseen hours of practice and preparation of an athlete having impact on the court, so will these lights. Next time you're in the Bob, don't just look at the action on the court, look up!"
Key benefits of the new lighting and entertainment system include:
Increased Light Levels with Reduced Environmental Impact
The new system nearly triples the amount of light on the court during Blue Hens basketball games and volleyball matches while reducing energy consumption by at least 25%. This helps players and fans track the ball and improves the quality of event broadcasts while helping the University to lower its operating costs and meet its sustainability goals.
Enhanced Entertainment Experience
Musco's Show-Light® Pro entertainment technology and color-changing fixtures create custom light shows synced to music for a more immersive and energetic environment during team introductions, halftime celebrations, and other key gameday moments.
Flexible Usage for Events and Activities
Beyond athletics, the flexible lighting and show-control system can be customized for commencements, concerts, campus gatherings, and other special events, helping the University maximize the value and versatility of the facility year-round.
The new lighting is backed by a 10-year warranty that covers every part and all labor, eliminating maintenance costs for the Blue Hens through the year 2036.
The Bob Carpenter Center at University of Delaware joins dozens of NCAA Division I arenas and 20 NBA arenas that feature Musco's customized LED technology.
About Energize Delaware
Energize Delaware offers energy efficiency and renewable energy programs for Delawareans, helping residents reduce their carbon footprint while supporting a thriving environment and economy. Guided by our vision, we continually introduce innovative and relevant solutions that power tomorrow with clean, efficient, and affordable energy. Energize Delaware is a proud 501(c)(3), RGGI-funded nonprofit, otherwise known as the Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU).
