Welsh Sports Stadium turns Green
Over 3,250 solar panels, have recently been fitted to the Principality Stadium’s iconic roof by EvoEnergy, making it the largest such installation at any sports stadium in the UK so far. The panels will significantly decarbonise Principality Stadium’s operations through the production of clean energy, generating an expected 1.25 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each a year ─ enough to power more than 50 matchdays
The panels are expected to reduce Principality Stadium’s carbon output by 219,791kg every single year, providing a substantial source of low-cost energy for the Welsh Rugby Union, and delivering a strong commercial payback of three and a half years.
The solar installation is part of a wider package of sustainability measures aimed at decarbonising Principality Stadium’s operations. The WRU is now developing a full-fledged sustainability strategy, which will draw on all of its current and future efforts to drive decarbonisation and broader societal change across the whole of Welsh rugby.
Gavin Marshall, WRU Chief Financial and Operating Officer said, “This marks a hugely exciting milestone, not just for Principality Stadium, but for the future of Welsh rugby. As one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world, it’s right that we harness its scale and influence to drive positive change, benefiting our game, our fans and the wider community.”
The solar installation will sit alongside other measures, such as the introduction of a well water abstraction system (which ensures clean drinking water is not wasted on cleaning or watering needs), rain-water harvesting, and installation of LED lighting throughout the stadium. There is also a commitment to sustainable food procurement and to working with local charities to ensure surplus food gets distributed within vulnerable communities
The full sustainability strategy is set to be published later this year and will ensure sustainable practices sits at the heart of the WRU’s five-year One Wales corporate strategy.
“While matchdays here will always be ignited by a sea of red jerseys, we’re proud that they will now be powered by clean green energy. Investing in innovative, sustainable energy solutions like solar is vital if we are to future-proof the stadium and play our part in creating a greener future.