Solar parking and EV infrastructure in Portsmouth: "Renewable Energy Solutions in Portsmouth"

author: FutureCar Staff    

Portsmouth City Council has recently announced the commencement of a new project aimed at enhancing solar panel provision and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure for the community. The project will be located at Lakeside North Harbour and is set to become one of the largest solar parking canopy initiatives in the UK.

The facility will incorporate roof-mounted solar PV arrays across five buildings, as well as solar car park canopies across three car parks, all equipped with battery storage provisions. The key features of this project include:

• Creation of solar canopies with 7,105 solar PV panels above existing car parking spaces.
• Implementation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, with provisions for additional charging points to be added as demand increases.
• Utilization of the battery's ability to store excess energy, enabling it to provide service to the local electricity network during times of high demand.

This innovative facility is expected to have a significant environmental impact, with estimated savings of over 860 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the solar PV system is projected to generate more than 4 million kWhs annually, which is equivalent to powering 1,300 homes for a year. Approximately 64% of this power will be consumed by the facility itself, while the battery will contribute additional power. The battery's storage capabilities will be managed to maximize efficiency, ensuring that users of the facility benefit the most. For instance, during periods of high-power prices, the battery will discharge energy to Lakeside, reducing grid consumption.

Cllr Kimberly Barrett, the Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We are constantly striving to improve our solar power in Portsmouth. Embarking on what could be the largest solar canopy project in the UK is a significant step towards our goal of achieving Net Zero by 2030 and promoting the use of greener energy in the city."

This initiative in Portsmouth shares similarities with a project undertaken by Northumberland County Council, which aims to revolutionize their fleet operations. For more information on their efforts, click here.

Image credit: iStock

FutureCar Staff