Nottingham Forest stars surprise local club to celebrate sustainability success

Young players at Keyworth United Community Football Club were treated to a surprise visit from Nottingham Forest recently, celebrating the club’s commitment to becoming more sustainable.

The visit, delivered with E.ON Next, recognised the grassroots club’s work to cut its carbon footprint through energy efficiency and renewable upgrades—helping reduce costs and reinvest in the community.

Forest players -  Matz Sels, Taiwo Awoniyi and Luca Netz -  joined training sessions with junior teams, meeting volunteers, families and young players at the heart of the club. The visit created an unforgettable experience for participants, while shining a spotlight on the positive impact grassroots clubs can have when supported to become more sustainable.

E.ON Next has installed solar panels and battery storage at the club enabling it to generate and store its own renewable energy. These improvements are reducing reliance on the grid, lowering energy bills and helping future‑proof the club’s facilities, allowing them to reinvest resources into facilities, opportunities and player development.

The activity forms part of England Football’s Greener Game, supported by E.ON Next, aimed at enabling grassroots clubs to improve their sustainability. Through the initiative, clubs benefit from free energy audits, expert advice and access to funding opportunities for upgrades such as solar and energy efficiency improvements. The programme aims to help clubs reduce costs, cut carbon and remain at the heart of their communities for years to come.

Scott Somerville, Director of External Affairs at E.ON UK, said: 

“Grassroots clubs like Keyworth United are at the heart of their communities, and it’s inspiring to see the steps they’re taking to become more sustainable. Through Greener Game, we’re helping clubs reduce their energy use, cut costs and invest back into what matters most — their players and local communities.”

Ian Thompson, Keyworth United Chairman added: “Community sport has the power to bring people together, build confidence and create opportunities for young people to thrive both on and off the pitch. At Keyworth Football Club, we’re passionate about making football accessible and inclusive for everyone, while creating positive experiences that stay with young players long into the future. Supporting grassroots sport in a sustainable way is also vital to ensuring clubs like ours can continue to grow, support local families and remain at the heart of the community for years to come."

The event highlights a shared ambition from E.ON Next and Nottingham Forest to use football to drive positive change—supporting more sustainable, resilient grassroots clubs.