8,545 solar panels have been installed at Lakeside North Harbour in a major green energy initiative led by Portsmouth City Council, which owns the site.
The project includes rooftop solar PV arrays on four buildings and solar canopies across three car parks, all supported by on-site battery storage. Together, the solar panels are expected to generate around 4,000MWh of electricity each year—enough to power more than 1,300 average three-bedroom homes annually.
The renewable energy generated will cover approximately 40% of the entire site’s electricity needs. On particularly sunny days and weekends, any surplus power will be exported to the national grid. The initiative is projected to cut over 900 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
This marks a major step forward in Portsmouth City Council’s journey toward sustainability and supports its broader Net Zero goals. The council’s Energy Services and Building Projects teams collaborated with solar installation specialists Custom Solar to bring the project to life.
Lakeside now stands as one of the country’s largest solar car park and battery storage installations, highlighting the city’s commitment to innovative, eco-friendly solutions.
Cabinet Member for Greening the City and Climate Action Cllr Kimberly Barrett said: “We are thrilled to have reached the final stage of this groundbreaking project! All teams have been dedicated and relentless in their efforts towards completion. It’s truly inspiring to see another solar project land at Portsmouth and make a huge step towards greener energy and our Net Zero goal.”
Simon Bateman, Asset Manager at Lakeside North Harbour, added: “This is an excellent opportunity for Lakeside businesses to benefit from the council’s Net Zero target at no direct cost to them. We are committed to creating a sustainable and environmentally responsible workspace for the businesses based here, the largest of its kind in this region. We recognise our responsibility to reduce environmental impacts, enhance sustainability, and contribute positively to the community and economy.
“This solar project will enable us to have a green electric supply for all 60 businesses at Lakeside. The environment is a fundamental core value at Lakeside – from creating the right atmosphere for our occupier community to driving sustainability and efficient use of our valuable resources.”
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