Emirates Stadium gets energy upgrade as Arsenal take ‘big step forwards’ on efficiency

Arsenal have announced the installation of a new battery storage system (BSS) at Emirates Stadium that will store enough power to run the ground for an entire match.

The BSS, created by London-based Pivot Power, is designed to help the Gunners more easily meet their peak levels of energy consumption.

The system will hold enough energy to run Arsenal’s home ground for 90 minutes, which is the same as powering 2,700 homes for two hours.

The club’s renewable energy partner, Octopus Energy, will power the system, which was developed with funding support from investment firm Downing LLP.

According to Arsenal, its BSS is the biggest at any UK sports ground. It is expected to run for the next 15 years.

Vinai Venkatesham, managing director of Arsenal, said in a statement on the club’s website: “This is a big step forwards for us in being efficient with energy usage, and building on our work in reducing our carbon footprint as an organisation.

“We have been powered by green energy since 2017 thanks to Octopus Energy, and the battery storage system will support our efforts further.”

Arsenal have worked to reduce their carbon footprint and environmental impact in recent years. Today, around 80% of waste produced on matchdays is recycled, while the installation of LED floodlights has slashed their floodlight energy consumption by almost a third.

Claire Perry MP, Minister for the Department of Business, Energy and Industry Strategy, commented: “The UK is certainly not being left back on the bench, with Arsenal truly moving the goalposts when it comes to energy efficiency at Emirates Stadium.

“This project scores the hat-trick of tackling peak prices and storing clean energy, with the goal of selling back energy to the grid at peak times.”

Matt Allen, chief exec at Pivot Power, said: “Arsenal is showing how football clubs and other big power users can save money and support government plans to meet climate change targets.

“Batteries are central to creating a cost-effective, low-carbon economy and we are keen to help government, local authorities and businesses seize the opportunities they offer.”