Exeter City Football Club powers its training ground with solar energy
Exeter City Football Club installs new solar panels
Exeter City F.C. have been in the English Football League One, the third division in the English football league system, for the past three seasons. After their 0-0 draw against Lincoln City on the weekend, the club sits 16th in the league table.
Earlier this week, some exciting environmental sustainability news emerged from the club. In partnership with EX2 Group’s Eco-Tech division, they have installed 108 solar panels on the roof of their training ground.
For this installation, the club has benefited from Devon County Council’s Green Impact Fund (GIF) programme, a £1.8 million capital grant scheme from the UK government to encourage businesses to implement decarbonisation initiatives.
The financial and environmental benefits of solar power
The Green Impact Fund aims to ensure businesses can reduce their operational costs, adopt decarbonisation measures, and reduce their emissions. These objectives have been met with the installation of the solar panels at the club’s Cliff Hill training ground.
It’s estimated that these solar panels will generate 40 MWh of clean electricity every year, saving the club 9 tCO2e. On the financial side, it’s expected that this first capital expenditure on a sustainability project will save the club £10,000 per year.
“We’ve been promising fans solar for some time now and it feels fantastic to finally be delivering on this, thanks to the support of Devon County Council, the Trust and of course, the expertise of EX2. We’re thrilled to be working with a trusted local supplier and are excited to benefit from the carbon savings of this project, as well as the clear financial benefits.”
Travis Bramley, Sustainability Officer at ECFC
Getting involved with the EFL’s Green Clubs scheme
This renewable energy project will contribute to Exeter City Football Club’s wider sustainability ambitions, such as becoming a signatory of the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework and participating in the English Football League’s Green Clubs scheme.
“By powering this site with renewable energy, the club is showing their commitment to their net zero goals and local community. We are looking forward to collaborating with them on further projects as they aim to reform the energy use across their sites.”
Sam Charters, the Eco-Tech Divisional Manager
The EFL Green Clubs scheme is a voluntary initiative for football clubs to sign up to, and through which their environmental performance is assessed and ranked. The 2024/25 season results will be shared by August 2025, and Wavezero will make sure to cover them!
