UK service station owner and operator, Extra MSA, has recently completed an installation of 810 solar PV panels at its Cobham Services site on the M25.
The installation at Cobham marks a step in Extra MSA’s sustainability journey, with the new system expected to generate up to 305,159 kWh of clean energy every year.
It is one of the largest single-site solar projects at a UK motorway service area and is projected to consume 96% of the estimated annual generation, cut the amenity building grid-supplied energy by 24% and significantly reduce Cobham’s overall carbon footprint.
It is also expected to deliver savings of an estimated £75,000 annually on electricity costs. With an estimated output of 305,159 kWh, the new solar panels will also reduce Extra’s overall carbon footprint, which has a target of reducing grid energy consumption across its estate by 35% by 2030.
Delivered by Spirit Energy, the installation is the latest announcement within a series of investments into promoting better sustainability at Extra’s Cobham site, following the recent installation of six additional ultra-fast IONITY chargers, bringing the site’s total up to 24 ultra-fast chargers – all of which use 100% renewable energy.
Michael Grantham, ESG Manager at Extra MSA, said:
“Investing in low-carbon solutions across our portfolio is central to our sustainability commitment. Partnering with Spirit Energy enabled us to deliver a system of this scale on a complex roof structure, overcoming the challenges that typically hinder large-scale installations.
“The cost savings we’re delivering will also allow us to reinvest back into our people and customers, whether through enhanced amenities, improved customer experience, or support for our teams. We’re proud to be setting a precedent for the motorway service sector and look forward to continuing our progress toward a greener, more sustainable future.”
Tok Charles, Technical Design Engineer at Spirit Energy, said:
“We’re delighted to have partnered with Extra MSA on one of the largest solar installations at a UK motorway service area.
“Cobham is a high-demand, high-profile site, and this project demonstrates how the adoption of renewable technologies can make a significant difference in such environments. Extra’s proactive approach sets a new benchmark for the sector, proving that sustainable solutions can deliver for businesses, their customers, and the planet.
“As an established specialist with over 15 years of experience installing solar and battery storage systems, Spirit Energy brings 100% in-house technical expertise, rigorous design standards, and full commitment to customer care.”
Image courtesy of Extra MSA
