Saints score with solar partnership

A football club is embracing renewable energy.

Southampton Football Club has teamed up with Utilita, its official sustainability partner, to install solar panels at the club’s Staplewood training ground. 

The project forms part of the Saints’ environmental strategy, known as The Halo Effect, which is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy resilience.

The solar installation will be fitted on the Pavilion and gym and is expected to generate around 20 per cent of the Pavilion’s total annual electricity needs. 

Over 20 years, the initiative is projected to deliver operational savings of approximately £0.6 million while reducing the club’s exposure to fluctuating energy costs.

Beyond financial benefits, the project will cut an estimated 33,000kg of CO₂ annually, underlining Southampton’s commitment to decarbonisation and sustainable operations. 

Darren Pollard, head of estates at Southampton FC, said: “This new project with Utilita represents a significant step forward in our sustainability journey. 

“By harnessing renewable energy at our training ground, we’re tackling rising energy costs while also reducing our environmental footprint. 

“Our sustainability strategy, The Halo Effect, is about making a positive impact on our club, community, and planet, and this project is a perfect example of that mission in action.”

George Walters, chief home services officer at Utilita, added: “Football clubs have a unique power to lead by example, and Southampton FC’s commitment to generating its own clean energy shows what practical sustainability looks like in action. 

“This project isn’t just about panels on a roof – it’s about futureproofing the club against rising energy costs and proving that environmental and financial responsibility can go hand in hand. 

“We’re proud to support Southampton FC in turning ambition into measurable carbon and cost savings and paving the way for other clubs to follow.”

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