Petersfield Town FC receives energy upgrades as part of national programme to protect grassroots football

Petersfield Town FC, based on in Hampshire, has received energy-saving upgrades to its clubhouse and facilities as part of a national programme that will invest £1.5million annually to improve sustainability credentials – and save money – for grassroots football clubs across England.

The Greener Game, delivered in partnership by England Football and energy provider E.ON Next, aims to drive decarbonisation, promote sustainable practices, and help to reduce energy costs for clubs across the country.

Petersfield Town FC is the latest team to benefit in the first year of the programme.

Following an audit and follow-up report from E.ON Next, Petersfield Town FC’s facilities were modernised with the installation of solar panels, which could save the club up to £2,500 a year.

These savings will enable the club to divert funds away from their energy usage and invest back into the grassroots football.

Over the next four years, the Greener Game programme will empower grassroots clubs by providing them with investment opportunities for sustainable upgrades, alongside a wealth of educational resources and energy-saving guides.

The programme’s investment is aiming to benefit 75 to 100 grassroots football clubs every year, thanks to the installation of sustainable upgrades to their facilities.

In addition, many more clubs will benefit from energy and cost saving advice and guidance from E.ON Next. Clubs that sign up to the programme can apply to receive an Energy Support Pack, empowering them to make positive changes to their club’s energy consumption.

Ben Bentley, Executive Committee Member for Projects, at Petersfield Town FC, said: “We’re delighted to receive an upgrade to our energy system as part of the Greener Game programme. Energy bills are a large part of our running costs, so to be able to take steps that help to keep them down is a real boost. We’re also passionate about reducing our carbon footprint, and the investment from England Football and E.ON Next will be a huge step forward in our decarbonisation efforts.”

Phil Woodward, The FA’s Head of Clubs and Facilities, added: "Our Greener Game programme is a significant milestone for grassroots football and sustainability. Improving facilities is a key part of our grassroots strategy and our partnership with E.ON Next allows us to give clubs like Petersfield Town FC practical tools and knowledge to embrace energy-efficient practices that will not only improve their operations and benefit the environment, but will also enable them to save money.”

And Scott Somerville, E.ON UK’s Director of External Affairs, added: “This is the energy transition working where it matters most – in local communities. By helping Petersfield Town FC cut bills through practical, sustainable upgrades, we’re freeing up money to invest back into people and the game. Grassroots clubs are community hubs, and working with The FA we’re focused on making new energy work for everyone - backing teams across England to become more resilient and fit for the future.”

For more information on the Greener Game, click here.