A new solar array at Larkhill Garrison in Wiltshire is helping the British Army reduce carbon emissions while strengthening energy resilience through renewable power.
Covering 2.5 hectares – an area larger than three football pitches – the installation features more than 4,000 photovoltaic panels. It is expected to generate around 1.7GWh of electricity each year, enough to power approximately 630 average UK homes.
The project forms part of the Army’s wider sustainability programme, supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions by cutting an estimated 352 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent annually. Any surplus electricity generated at Larkhill will be distributed to neighbouring military sites at Bulford, Tidworth and Perham Down through a private wire network.
Combined with new rooftop solar installations, the project enabled the garrison to achieve energy self-sufficiency for 73 days during peak daylight hours this year.
Major General AJ Smith CBE, Director of Basing & Infrastructure and the Army’s Sustainability Champion, said: “This project shows what is possible when we invest in practical, scalable renewable energy. By growing our green energy supply we are building an Army estate that is more sustainable and resilient, and better able to support operational capability.”
The solar array, delivered through Project PROMETHEUS, also includes a butterfly conservation area to encourage biodiversity, demonstrating how renewable energy developments can deliver environmental benefits, beyond reducing emissions while supporting a more sustainable Defence estate.
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