Plan for 1,200 solar panels on sport centre roof

Plans have been submitted for the installation of 1,200 solar panels on the roof of the Isle of Man's National Sports Centre (NSC).

The move forms part of wider plans by Manx Utilities to generate 75% of the island's electricity through solar and onshore wind projects, backed by the government in early 2023.

If the plans are approved, the solar panels on the NSC in Douglas would have a capacity to generate 735 kW of electricity, enough to power hundreds of homes.

Manx Utilities said it formed part of a wider programme "to support the island's transition to cleaner energy, reduce reliance on imported electricity and deliver practical early renewable generation at public buildings".

The submission follows "detailed structural and technical assessments of the NSC roof to ensure the installation meets all safety, design and performance requirements," a Manx Utilities spokesperson said.

A certificate of lawful development, which does not require planning approval, has also been submitted in case the plans are not given the go-ahead, which would see the solar panels generate less electricity at 650 kW.

Manx Utilities said that via either route, the plans would progress, however it was preferred that the proposals were approved as it would allow for more electricity to be generated.

Further updates would be provided as the application progressed through the planning process, it continued.

The plans form part of a wider island strategy to generate 10 MW of solar energy.

Manx Utilities is also in the process of exploring options for installing ground-mounted solar panels in Balladoole, Ramsey, and a floating solar array in Sulby Reservoir.

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