Ascot Racecourse has completed a 608.04 kWp rooftop solar installation in partnership with SSE Energy Solutions and Ortus Energy. The system is expected to generate approximately 569,000 kWh of renewable electricity annually and supply around 9% of the venue’s total electricity demand.

The project includes more than 1,200 solar panels installed across the 480-metre Grandstand roof, one of the racecourse’s most prominent structures. The renewable electricity generated on site will help power race days, including Royal Ascot, as well as more than 180 non-racing events hosted at the venue each year.

According to project estimates, the installation will deliver carbon savings of approximately 118 tonnes of CO2e in its first year of operation, while reducing reliance on grid electricity generated from fossil fuels and strengthening the resilience of Ascot’s operations.

Supporting the electrification of sports venues

SSE Energy Solutions highlighted rooftop solar as a key technology for organizations seeking to reduce emissions, improve energy security and gain greater predictability over energy costs.

Ascot Racecourse said the project represents a significant milestone in its decarbonization strategy, transforming the Grandstand roof into a long-term energy asset while supporting the venue’s sustainability objectives.

Delivered through a long-term PPA

The installation was developed under a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA), allowing Ascot to access renewable electricity without any upfront capital investment.

Under the agreement, SSE Energy Solutions funded the project, while Ortus Energy was responsible for the design, installation and operation of the system. The arrangement provides long-term visibility on energy costs and reduces exposure to volatility in fossil fuel-based electricity markets.

The solar array is fully integrated into the existing Grandstand infrastructure and is regarded as one of the largest rooftop solar projects deployed at a sports venue in the United Kingdom.