PROJECT Solar UK, the UK’s largest retailer and installer of solar panels, has become Hyde United’s main club sponsor.
The 10-year-old company which provides more than 25 per cent of the solar panels in use in the UK, has signed a three-year sponsorship package which will see the football team’s Ewen Fields ground renamed as the Project Solar UK Stadium.
The 4,250-capacity venue already benefits from distinctive solar panels on the roof of the stands providing energy from the sun to help manage the electricity demands on match days and when the Ewen Fields stadium is not in use by the teams.
Solar panels work by converting energy from the sun into electricity that can be stored in batteries when not needed. Excess energy can be sold back to the grid making solar panels an effective way of dealing with energy demands of commercial buildings as well as homes.
The club is being redeveloped with new signage and a refresh of the stands ahead of the 2021-22 season which kicks off on August 14 against Atherton Collieries. Playing in the Northern Premier League, premier division, Hyde United have a 100 year plus history in the area and a loyal inter-generational following.
Project solar UK director Tom Armstrong said: “Living locally, I have always kept an eye on the Tigers’ progress as well as my sons playing in the youth teams.
“I heard Hyde United were looking for support after being able to play only around eight games last season. After a brief visit I was so impressed with the youth development side of the club and the first team’s ambitious plans, we decided to have further discussions on how we could work together.
“Hyde United has a great community spirit, run by a board that really cares about the fans and local community. I am delighted our company can be involved in this long-term project”.
Club chairman Steve Hartley added: “Project Solar UK have many exciting ideas to activate their sponsorship and build a real partnership between now and 2024.
“Thanks to their financial contribution, we can face a certain future as our first, reserve and junior development teams step up their pre-season training and prepare for an exciting season ahead.”