London Stadium Unveils New Solar Panels

London Stadium today, july 18, powered up its new solar panel installation, providing renewable energy for the first time at this weekend’s sold-out Novuna London Athletics Meet.

The 60,000-capacity Diamond League meeting is the first to benefit from the installation of 6,500 square metres of advanced solar membrane panels, now fully integrated into the stadium’s roof. By London Stadium’s own admission, “it is the largest investment in solar panels for any stadium in the UK.”

“The energy produced will power all major event days throughout the year—including West Ham United matches, world-class concerts, and international athletics—making London Stadium a world leading venue for solar energy coverage,” the press announcement states.

The system will generate an estimated 850,000 kWh annually, offsetting over 200 tons of carbon emissions, which is the “equivalent to 100 transatlantic flights from London to New York.”

Team GB athlete Daryll Neita joined UK Athletics CEO Jack Buckner, and London Stadium CEO Graham Gilmore for the switch-on, marking a major milestone for the former 2012 Olympic and Paralympic venue, 20 years to the month after London won its Games bid.

This landmark £4.35 million ($5.83 million) project is the first to be delivered under the mayor of London’s £500 million ($670 million) Green Finance Fund, designed to help public sector bodies accelerate decarbonization and support the capital’s transition to net zero.

The solar panel installation is part of a broader program of sustainability upgrades at London Stadium, including LED lighting, energy-efficient chillers and air-handling units, and smart power-saving devices in food and drink kiosks. These measures, supported by a staff awareness campaign, have reduced the venue’s energy use by 1.9 million kWh. Once fully operational, the rooftop solar panels will contribute a further 850,000 kWh reduction, delivering a projected 10%–15% cut in electricity costs.

By 2026, with more energy saving projects and the solar panels operating, the stadium expects its overall energy consumption from the national grid to drop from 12 million (recorded in 2022) to 8.5 million kWh annually — a total saving of 3.5 million kWh.

Ameresco, a leading energy solutions provider, was awarded the contract to design, install, operate, and maintain the solar membrane system. According to the press release, “the bespoke solution incorporates ultra-lightweight thin-film photovoltaic (PV) panels to ensure minimal weight on the roof, maximum energy generation, and full compliance with fire safety regulations. Populous advised on design, Buro Happold advised on the structural & electrical engineering requirements, with OPS providing site supervision.”

See: ASM Global Partners With London Stadium

Comments:

Mete Coban, deputy mayor for environment and energy: “The new solar panels at London Stadium show how we’re transforming one of the capital’s most iconic venues into a global leader in sustainable sport and entertainment, 20 years on from the Olympic Games bid that helped shape our sporting legacy. This flagship project is the first to benefit from the Mayor’s £500m Green Finance Fund that supports work across the capital to reduce emissions, lower energy bills and inspire climate action. The fund is still open for applications, so I encourage organizations to follow London Stadium’s lead and get involved as we continue building a fairer, greener London for everyone.”

Jack Buckner, CEO of UK Athletics: “We’re incredibly proud that the Novuna London Athletics Meet is not only the biggest one-day athletics event in the world, but now also one of the most sustainable—powered by the very stadium that continues to set the global standard for sporting excellence. The London Stadium is world-class in every sense, and these new solar panels show what can be achieved when innovation and legacy come together. With a sold-out crowd this weekend, we can’t wait to see the world’s best athletes perform in an environment that leads the way both on and off the track.”

Graham Gilmore, CEO of London Stadium: “Sustainability is now front and centre for artists, athletes, and promoters alike—and as a world-class venue, we’re proud to meet that expectation. With 60,000 fans attending the Novuna London Athletics Meet this weekend, it’s incredibly exciting to be powering the event with energy generated right here on site. We’re committed to being part of the climate solution.”

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