This year, the live music industry witnessed a significant transformation as two major players, AEG and Live Nation, dedicated their energy and resources to making power sources at live events, especially festivals, cleaner and more sustainable. The focus was largely on batteries, which opened up new possibilities for powering not only the occasional parking lot light but also the entire mainstage operations. The evolution of technology, driven by the electric vehicle industry, made this a reality.

Impact at the Highest Levels

In August, Lollapalooza became the first major festival in the U.S. to power its mainstage using battery power. This was a major milestone and set an example for the industry. Meanwhile, AEG/Goldenvoice, which had been experimenting with battery systems for a few years for lower-priority power needs, had a breakthrough year in 2024. Through a hybrid system that combined industrial-tier batteries, clean generators, biodiesel, solar, and grid power, they were able to dramatically reduce "scope 1" emissions at events. At their Portola Festival in San Francisco alone, this hybrid system saved the use of more than 6,000 gallons of diesel fuel. The same system at Camp Flog Gnaw in L.A. in November was declared by the company as their "cleanest energy festival to date." 1: The implementation of battery-powered mainstages at these high-profile events not only showcases the industry's commitment to sustainability but also highlights the potential for significant environmental benefits. It demonstrates that with the right technology and strategies, live music events can become more environmentally friendly without sacrificing the quality of the experience. 2: The use of a hybrid system by AEG/Goldenvoice is particularly noteworthy. By combining multiple power sources, they are able to optimize energy usage and reduce emissions. This approach shows that there are multiple ways to achieve sustainability in live music events and that innovation is key.

Encouraging Trends in Energy Providers

Huge and longstanding festival energy providers like CES Power are also looking at ways to implement battery systems. They are starting to shift their inventory to include batteries, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of clean energy in the live music industry. This trend is promising as it shows that the industry as a whole is moving towards a more sustainable future. 1: The involvement of these established energy providers is crucial as it brings more resources and expertise to the table. It also helps to drive down costs and make clean energy more accessible to event producers. 2: While there are still challenges to overcome, such as the need for charging batteries with generators and the higher cost of battery systems compared to traditional power sources, the fact that industry leaders are investing in these projects gives hope for the future.

Balancing Sustainability and Competition

When it comes to sustainability, the live events industry is having important conversations about freely sharing information. While there is a sense that a competitive spirit is driving some of the innovation, it is also important to collaborate and share best practices. This balance between competition and cooperation is crucial for the continued growth and sustainability of the industry. 1: By sharing information, event producers can learn from each other and accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies. It also helps to build a sense of community within the industry and encourages more companies to get involved. 2: However, it is important to remember that competition can also drive innovation. The desire to be at the forefront of sustainability can lead to new ideas and solutions. As long as this competition is healthy and focused on the greater good, it can have a positive impact on the industry.