Construction begins on the Mildenhall Hub solar canopies project

15 Jun 2026

Work has begun on the installation of new solar canopies at Mildenhall Hub, marking a significant step forward towards the site’s sustainability.

The project will see the construction of the solar canopies over parking bays starting from Thursday 11 June, designed to generate energy while providing sheltered parking for hub users.

Once completed, the canopies are expected to generate over £130,000 of electricity and save over 124 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

The project not only will reduce energy bills, but also provide protection against future grid price increases.

Over 50 trees are set to be planted alongside the project, as well as new bird and bat boxes, log heaps and compost piles.

The solar canopies are funded as part of the council’s strategic priority to improve environmental resilience and work towards net zero for its own buildings and vehicles by 2039, as set out in the council’s decarbonisation roadmap.

The installation of the canopies will cause some temporary disruption to the car park and its users, however clear signage has been displayed onsite in the car park and inside the Hub, as well as regular updates being shared through the council’s website, social media platforms and Hub tenant email distribution groups.

Cllr Gerald Kelly, Cabinet Member for Governance, Regulatory and Environment at West Suffolk Council, said: “We are continuing to work on protecting our sites from future fluctuations in grid electricity prices and reduce carbon emissions where possible. The start of construction marks an exciting milestone as we begin transforming our existing car park into a source of renewable energy, without using additional land.

“The solar canopies will not only generate renewable energy, reduce costs and carbon emissions, but also demonstrate how thoughtful design can deliver practical benefits for the community.

“By investing in renewable energy, it will ensure that Mildenhall Hub remains a modern, efficient and sustainable community facility. It is a visible, long-term investment for Mildenhall Hub and everyone who uses it!”

Richard Lees, Technical Director at the UK clean energy partner Egg, said: “The Egg team are incredibly proud to commence delivery of the new solar car park at Mildenhall Hub, working alongside West Suffolk Council to turn ambition into action. 

“By transforming a car park into a smart energy asset, we are not only reducing reliance on the grid and shielding the site from varying energy prices, but also making a meaningful impact on carbon reduction. 

“Projects such as the Mildenhall Hub solar canopies show how infrastructure can do more: generating renewable power, supporting vital public services, and improving the experience for users. It is an exciting step forward in creating resilient, sustainable places that deliver real environmental and economic benefits for the community.”

For more information, visit: Mildenhall Hub solar canopy installation

 

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