Ameresco and North Ayrshire Council: Harnessing Solar Power for a Sustainable Future

In an effort to advance its net-zero goals, North Ayrshire Council has partnered with Ameresco, a leading cleantech integrator, to develop two solar farms on repurposed landfill sites. This innovative collaboration aims to generate clean energy, reduce carbon emissions, and create community benefits, all while transforming previously unusable land into productive assets.

The two solar farms, located at Nethermains and Shewalton, are expected to generate a combined annual energy output of over 13,000 MWh, enough to power more than 2,000 homes. This clean, renewable energy will not only help reduce the region's reliance on fossil fuels but also lower greenhouse gas emissions. The annual reduction in CO2 emissions is estimated at 2,700 tonnes of CO2 per year based on the combined annual energy generation.



The £12.8 million project is a key element of North Ayrshire Council's Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy, demonstrating the Council's commitment to sustainability and community development. The revenue generated from the project will be reinvested into North Ayrshire, supporting local services and providing community benefits.

Ameresco's involvement in these projects contributes significantly to its own sustainability goals and growth strategy. By constructing and operating these solar farms, Ameresco expands its portfolio of renewable energy assets, aligning with its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy. The company's expertise in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure development is evident in its ability to transform underutilized land into a source of clean energy, creating value for both the Council and the community.

Councillor Tony Gurney, cabinet member for green environment and economy at North Ayrshire Council, emphasizes the significance of this project: "This is a momentous day for the Council and our ongoing efforts to combat climate change and cut carbon emissions. We want to lead by example and this solar farm at Nethermains – to be soon followed by a second solar farm at Shewalton – will make a massive difference to our efforts."

Mark Apsey, Managing Director at Ameresco, shares the Council's enthusiasm: "Ameresco is excited to be working in partnership with North Ayrshire Council on this important renewable energy project. We expect the solar PV facilities will make a significant impact on the region's carbon emissions whilst providing green electricity and employment opportunities for the local communities."

In conclusion, the partnership between Ameresco and North Ayrshire Council demonstrates the potential for public-private collaboration in driving sustainable development and clean energy adoption. By repurposing landfill sites for solar farms, the project not only generates clean energy and reduces carbon emissions but also creates community benefits and contributes to both organizations' sustainability goals and growth strategies.