The Lee Valley White Water Centre, serving as the daily training base for Great Britain’s world-class Canoe Slalom athletes, has installed more than 100 solar panels as a part of a major sustainability drive to cut the carbon footprint of the 2012 Olympic legacy venue.
A total of 130 panels now line the roof of the main building, following a £100,000 joint investment by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and Paddle UK.
The project is expected to pay for itself within eight years through energy savings.
“I am delighted with the installation of the solar panels, as it represents a milestone in Paddle UK’s commitment to a sustainable future,” said Ashley Metcalfe, the Chief Executive Officer of Paddle UK.
“This joint venture with the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority demonstrates our efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of the Olympic legacy venue and the wider sport and leisure community.”
The installation, carried out by AES Smart and overseen by Laser Energy, forms part of a broader strategy to implement environmental best practices across the park’s estate.
“This is the latest in a number of projects that reduce energy costs while delivering positive environmental impact, including solar panels at the Lee Valley Ice Centre, making it the most sustainable ice centre in the UK,” said Mike Stevens, Head of Asset Maintenance at the Authority.
The solar installation reinforces the centre’s long-term commitment to sustainability while supporting elite sport in a more environmentally responsible way.
The International Canoe Federation’s strategic vision, as outlined in its Fit For Future plan, places significant emphasis on leveraging whitewater venues to contribute to sustainable development goals.
These venues play a crucial role in generating revenue, promoting citizen welfare and accelerating climate and environmental objectives.
Related links:
