Formula E Championship Powered by Solar

Lightsource bp UK will bring solar energy to Formula E Championship, powering its essential services

The exciting finale to the FIA Formula E Championship, in London, hosted the city’s first ever solar farm – courtesy of solar experts Lightsource.

Lightsource, Europe’s largest solar energy company, has announced a two-year deal to bring solar energy to the Formula E races. The new partnership began at the London ePrix finale at Battersea Park where Lightsource showcased its capabilities by powering a range of essential services on and off track.

Solar-charged batteries in the pit-lane fuelled the Official Formula E Garage, which houses official vehicles. A total of 26 solar photovoltaic panels installed at the event created a local source of clean electricity to power one of the giant TV screens and free mobile phone charging for fans, as well as ticket machines at the entrances.

Nick Boyle, CEO at Lightsource, said: “We’re excited by our new partnership with Formula E and extremely proud that solar energy will play such a key role in powering the races in London. As Europe’s largest solar energy company, we’re delighted to support such an innovative motorsport. It’s great to have the chance to showcase the scalability and flexibility of solar technology on a global stage.”

Operating the largest portfolio of solar PV projects in Europe at just over 1 Gigawatt, Lightsource has an unrivalled track record in the deployment of solar power installations on ground and rooftops across the UK. The company is passionate about improving the way electricity is delivered and about making it cleaner, more affordable and sustainable.

Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E, added: “We are pleased to partner with Lightsource — a company that shares our vision for powering the future with affordable, clean energy. As well as showcasing the potential of electric vehicles, Formula E also aims to promote sustainability as a whole and be a platform for innovative, new technology.”

Solar Power Portal went trackside for the announcement to view their day at the Formula E