Grateley Business Park has taken another big step in its mission to deliver sustainable commercial space, thanks to support from Test Valley Borough Council’s new solar grant scheme.
The site’s newest block of industrial units has now been fitted with a 56kW solar array, funded in part by a £5,000 grant from the council. The full installation cost totalled more than £25,000.
The new system will generate clean energy for the business park’s tenants and supports the development’s A+ energy efficiency rating. It’s expected to save over 20 tonnes of CO₂ in its first year and reduce energy bills by around £12,500.
Christian Osorio, Director of Grateley Business Park Ltd, said:
“Test Valley Borough Council have helped us to install a large and modern solar array on our new industrial units in Grateley, enabling us to provide clean energy to our onsite tenants. The grant process was simple, and the council team supported me all the way through the application to its successful conclusion.”
Councillor Alison Johnston, Portfolio Holder for Climate Emergency and Countryside, added:
“We’re delighted to see Grateley Business Park leading the way. These grants are about more than solar panels – they’re about helping businesses cut emissions and reduce costs. It’s a win for the environment and a win for our local economy.”
The solar grant scheme was launched earlier this year, with up to £50,000 allocated from the borough’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Grants cover 20% of project costs up to a maximum of £5,000 and are open to landlords, leaseholders and occupiers of commercial premises across Test Valley. All installations must be completed by March 2026.
More information is available at www.testvalley.gov.uk/solargrants.