Light + Building 2026 industry’s the sector’s pace of innovation

Buildings – from energy consumers to active systems

In the buildings sector, Light + Building 2026 clearly demonstrated how buildings are evolving from passive energy consumers into active components of an intelligent energy system. Smart energy distribution, integrated load and charging management, and bidirectional charging are increasingly linking buildings, the grid and e-mobility, opening up new opportunities for energy efficiency and system stability. At the same time, the existing building stock moved further into focus: modular, scalable solutions are making energy modernisation easier and enabling retrofits to be implemented efficiently and cost-effectively. Digital planning and operation concepts, together with multifunctional interfaces, simplify installation and use, while secure charging infrastructure and reliable systems for critical applications are gaining in importance. In this way, the sector is driving the next stage in the development of building technology – with the aim of making buildings more integrated, flexible and future-ready.

Lighting – intelligently controlled and atmospherically staged

In the lighting sector, it became clear that lighting is increasingly evolving into a data-driven, adaptive system. Sensors, connected luminaires and AI-supported control systems enable precise, demand-based light distribution that automatically adapts to presence, daylight and specific usage scenarios. Across all application areas – from private homes and hospitality to retail, industry and urban infrastructure – connected and flexibly scalable solutions took centre stage. At the same time, light remains a key design element in interior architecture: high-quality luminaires, diverse design languages and carefully tuned light colours create atmosphere, guide perception and enhance the quality of spaces. Sustainable materials, durable components and circular product design further underline the industry’s long-term outlook. Overall, the direction is clearly towards a new generation of holistic lighting concepts that combine technological precision with emotional impact.

Design, AI and young talent set new trends

The high-quality range of events also provided impetus for the next stage of innovation. The Design Plaza in Hall 3.1 was the centre for lighting and design topics. Here, current developments in lighting design were classified, design trends were highlighted and forward-looking projects were presented. Among the guests was ‘Women in Lighting’, which promoted international exchange in the lighting industry. The electrical trade also set an example and laid the foundation for the ‘ElektroHeldinnen’ initiative, which makes women in the trade more visible and connects them in a targeted manner. The ‘Young Design’ area also attracted a great deal of attention, with selected young designers providing new impetus with innovative materials, experimental luminaires and clear conceptual approaches. In Hall 9, the AI Lounge attracted numerous visitors: The highly popular sessions provided practical examples of how artificial intelligence is taking planning, operation and business models in building technology to a new level. The new special show ‘The Living Light’ placed lighting in the context of the areas of home, education, work and communication, illustrating how light creates orientation, shapes moods and supports human interaction, concentration and motivation.

With the Power Festival, Light + Building further expanded its commitment to young talent in the electrical trade. In the Galleria between Halls 8 and 9, a vibrant meeting point was created for apprentices, skilled tradespeople, master electricians and industry representatives. The area featured a “workshop street”, hands-on challenges, occupational safety seminars, as well as talks and live content from well-known creators from the trades. The format combined exchange, practical experience and community. A charity initiative also formed part of the concept: visitors collected kilometres for a good cause on three activity bikes. Light + Building rounded up the amount and donated a total of €10,000 to the Deutsche Kinderhilfsstiftung, supporting equal educational opportunities and helping children start school with the equipment they need.