This ambitious “Going Green” initiative was made possible through crucial support from Centric and the Energy for Tomorrow programme, which helps UK communities achieve their net-zero goals by providing vital grant funding and expert advice.

Club leaders are passionate about the project’s wider implications. Zak Hajat, Chair of Leicester Nirvana, stated, “We are passionate about this transition towards sustainability, not only for the benefit of our club but also for the broader community. Our vision is clear: by embracing renewable energy and responsible practices, we aim to inspire others to follow suit”.

A Game-Changing Impact

The new system is projected to generate an impressive 26,451 kWh of clean electricity every year. This will slash the club’s dependence on the national grid by a massive 53%. With 37% of its power coming directly from the sun and an additional 16% from battery storage, Leicester Nirvana will only need to source the remaining 47% from the grid.

The environmental benefits are substantial. The club anticipates an annual CO₂ reduction of 5,477 kg. To put that into perspective, this single-year saving is equivalent to:

• Planting approximately 251 mature trees.
• Powering seven average UK homes for a full year.
• The emissions from driving an average petrol car for almost 20,000 miles.

Over the 25-year lifespan of the solar PV system, the total potential reduction could reach an incredible 136,925 kg of CO₂. Furthermore, the clean electricity generated won’t just power the club’s facilities; it will also be fed back into the local energy grid, promoting sustainability throughout the wider community.

A Vision for a Sustainable Future

This project builds on the club’s existing commitment to sustainability, which includes being one of the first grassroots clubs to measure its carbon footprint and partner with De Montfort University’s UN Academic Impact Hub for Sustainable Development.

Ivan Liburd, the club’s SDG Champion, added that the initiative is about more than just emissions. “Our project reflects the growing need for football to have a stronger focus on climate justice,” he said. “By installing our PV system, we are able to reduce inequalities by reducing carbon – which is a massive achievement”. This powerful vision showcases how local action can contribute to global sustainability goals.