Oxford United set all-electric-powered stadium goal

League One, Oxford United FC has announced plans to build the first stadium in the country powered solely by electricity to create a sustainable new home.

As part of the club’s pledge to deliver a state-of-the-art stadium it would use a low-carbon energy supply to create an ‘all electric’ stadium, with power also generated by solar panels.

Jon Clarke, Development Director at Oxford United, said: “The standout element of the stadium is it will be the most sustainable mid-sized sports venue in the country. We want to make the most of the opportunity to create something special – it would be one of the greenest football stadiums to be built.”

The proposed 16,000 capacity stadium, to be built near Kidlington on the outskirts of Oxford, would not use any high carbon intensity fossil fuels such as gas.

Renewable energy sources, including 3000m² of solar panels on the roof, along with energy efficiency measures would achieve radical carbon emission reductions. The club said the solar panels would generate enough energy to boil around 3 million 3-litre kettles per year.

Modern building fabric design and heat recovery solutions would also be used to maximise thermal efficiency.

The plans for the stadium also include a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre, health & wellbeing space, gym and a community plaza. The club is currently preparing to submit its full planning application.