Utilita Bowl's Installation Of 1044 Solar Panels Has Begun

In line with Utilita Bowl’s aspiration to become the world’s greenest cricket ground, and as part of an industry leading partnership with energy supplier Utilita Energy, the installation of more than one thousand solar panels at the venue has now started.

With these solar panels, Utilita Bowl will be capable of generating around 25 percent of the electricity used in the stadium each year, and more than enough to cover the electricity consumed during match days.

This solar PV array, which will generate 381,829kwh per year, will save the venue a six figure sum each year in electricity costs – as well as 80 tonnes of carbon per year – the same level of emissions produced by driving 301,855 miles in the average passenger vehicle.

The project has begun following planning approval from Eastleigh Borough Council, and over the coming weeks the venue will see 1,044 solar panels installed across five buildings at Utilita Bowl.

Works will start on the Colin Ingleby‑Mackenzie Stand, before moving around the venue across the Shane Warne Stand, Arthur Holt Pavilion & Hampshire Wellbeing Centre and then installing over 600 panels across Hilton Southampton - Utilita Bowl.

The project of installing EV Charging points at Hilton Southampton - Utilita Bowl, is also set to commence in the coming weeks, and is expected to be completed in July.

David Mann, CEO at Utilita Bowl said: “To be at this stage now is such an exciting part of this partnership with Utilita, where we have set out a bold vision to create the greenest international cricket venue in the world. Utilita Bowl is on track to do that, with this first key step being the installation of over one thousand solar panels.

“Destinations like Utilita Bowl have a powerful responsibility to the future of our community, and we are thoroughly committed to owning our role and playing our part through this project, and many more initiatives to come.”

Bill Bullen, CEO at Utilita added: “When announcing our partnership with Utilita Bowl earlier this year, we did not hold back on sharing our ambitions and outlining our plans. That’s because we meant every word and I’m delighted we have now physically started our joint venture to transform this magnificent venue into the world’s greenest cricket ground.

“From the moment that first solar panel was installed, we began making history.”

Image Credit: Utilita Bowl.