A new solar array has been unveiled, marking a major step in sustainable energy generation.
Now operational at Larkhill Garrison on Salisbury Plain, the solar farm spans 2.5 hectares—equivalent to more than three football pitches—and is designed to bolster the Army’s energy resilience.
With more than 4,000 photovoltaic panels, the array is expected to generate around 1.7 GWh of electricity annually.
This is enough to power approximately 630 average UK homes.
Major General AJ Smith, Director of Basing and 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.”
Any surplus electricity generated will be distributed through a private wire network to neighbouring camps, including Bulford, Tidworth, and Perham Down.
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The installation is part of the Army’s wider sustainability strategy and is expected to offset about 352 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) annually, contributing to the UK’s net zero targets.
James Clare, director of Energy, Environment, and Infrastructure at the Ministry of Defence, said: “This project shows the practicable benefits of investing in scalable energy solutions.
“By increasing our renewable energy capacity, we are reducing costs, enhancing estate resilience, and supporting a more sustainable and operationally effective estate.”
The Larkhill project was delivered by Aspire Defence Services Ltd on behalf of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), and funded through Project PROMETHEUS.
This Army programme is designed to expand the use of both rooftop and ground-mounted solar technology across suitable Army sites.
Allan Thomson, chief executive officer of Aspire Defence Ltd, said: “This project represents an important step in supporting more sustainable, resilient infrastructure across the estate and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to delivering long-term value for our Army customer and the environment.
“We are proud to have enabled this programme for the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and to be helping to drive meaningful progress towards a lower-carbon future across Defence.”
Earlier this year, Larkhill Garrison achieved 73 days of self-sufficiency during peak daylight hours, exporting surplus energy to Bulford Camp.
Built on unused green space within Larkhill Garrison, the solar array also features a butterfly conservation area to encourage biodiversity.
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