Council welcomes new sponsor’s ambition for ‘world’s greenest cricket ground’
Utilita Bowl features huge new solar array
The announcement of a new sponsor for Eastleigh Borough’s premier international cricket, music and leisure venue in West End – and its stated aim to be the world’s greenest cricket ground - has been welcomed by the Council.
A partnership agreement with locally based Utilita Energy, the UK’s ninth largest domestic energy supplier, will see the Council-owned ground renamed as Utilita Bowl.
The venue’s huge new solar array will see every match powered by daylight, saving 80 tonnes of carbon per year - equivalent to emissions produced from driving 301,855 miles in the average passenger vehicle. It is part of a bold vision for creating the greenest international cricket venue in the world, while supporting those who visit to make energy savings.
The multi-year agreement will see Utilita Bowl host 19 international cricket fixtures from 2025 – 2031. This includes both a Men’s Ashes Test in 2027 and a Women’s Ashes Test in 2031.
The Leader of Eastleigh Borough Council, Councillor Keith House, said: “It is good news that Utilita, a company with such a strong local presence and excellent environmental credentials, has taken on the sponsorship of Eastleigh Borough’s world-class venue for cricket and other events. As a council, we’re committed to supporting communities and businesses across the Borough to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. Being the location of the world’s greenest cricket ground is a great way of demonstrating that ambition.”