The Utilita Bowl, in partnership with energy supplier Utilita Energy, has begun installing over 1,000 solar panels. This is the first major step in the stadium's journey to become the world's greenest cricket ground.
The solar panels will generate 25% of the stadium's electricity needs annually, even exceeding their consumption on match days. This eco-friendly initiative is expected to save the venue a significant amount on electricity bills and reduce carbon emissions by 80 tonnes per year.
The installation is underway following approval from the Eastleigh Borough Council. Over the coming weeks, 1,044 panels will be placed across five buildings at the Utilita Bowl. Additionally, the project includes installing electric vehicle charging stations, expected to be completed in July.
"We are excited to be on track to creating the greenest international cricket venue in the world," said David Mann, CEO of Utilita Bowl. "This project is just the first step in many initiatives to come."
Bill Bullen, CEO at Utilita, echoed this sentiment: "We are delighted to have begun transforming this magnificent venue into the world's greenest cricket ground."