Solar power project to boost London Luton’s net zero ambitions

Burges Salmon has advised independent power producer Zestec Renewable Energy on the development and a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) of a 10.42MWp solar photovoltaic installation at London Luton Airport.

The project – being delivered in partnership with Ikigai Energy – will provide London Luton Airport with on-site renewable electricity through a fully funded model, removing the need for upfront capital investment while supporting the airport’s ambitious Net Zero 2040 target.

The installation will comprise more than 14,500 solar modules across five development areas within the airport’s secure airside perimeter and is expected to generate up to 11.2GWh of electricity annually.

The project is forecast to deliver first-year carbon savings of approximately 1,467 tonnes of CO2e while providing significant long-term energy cost benefits and protection from electricity market volatility.

“This project demonstrates how the energy transition is moving beyond traditional power generation and becoming a critical part of the long-term strategy for major infrastructure assets,” notes Ross Fairley, senior partner and head of renewable energy at Burges Salmon.

“Airports are under increasing pressure to decarbonise, improve operational resilience and manage energy costs, and innovative PPA-backed projects such as this provide a compelling solution.

“This transaction is a strong example of how developers, investors and infrastructure operators can work together to deliver both commercial and environmental value.”

Marc Wolman, infrastructure director at LTN, added: “This solar project is a significant milestone in our journey towards Net Zero 2040 and will play an important role in reducing operational emissions while improving our long-term energy resilience.

Zestec Renewable Energy is owned by funds managed by Octopus Energy Generation.