The project represents a significant step forward in the club’s Energy and Environmental Plan to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, in addition to plans for ongoing stadium development.
Work is taking place this Summer and is funded by MOSL – England’s market operator for the non-household water market – as one project in its inaugural Market Improvement Fund.
The project is led by Pennon Water Services, a business water retailer, working with SDS.
SDS rainwater recycling systems ensure rainwater is prioritised as the primary water source, while ensuring a constant water supply, by intelligently switching to mains water when rainwater is unavailable.
Dr Neil Sewell, Director of New Technology Services at SDS, said: “The project aims to reduce the club’s water consumption and the amount of water it discharges to the drainage network. It’s about recognising that water is a precious resource.”
Home Park is one of eight sites where rainwater recovery equipment is being installed and monitored to evaluate the potential of retrofitting water saving systems to existing attenuation tanks at commercial properties.
The purpose-designed rainwater harvesting system, sited at PAFC’s Mayflower Grandstand, has a 40,000 litre capacity and will enable the club to repurpose rainwater falling on the 1km2 surface area of the roof to feed the pitch irrigation system. The system will collect data on how much tap water is saved by using filtered rainwater instead.
Plymouth Argyle’s Head of Venue, Christian Kent, said: “This project underlines our commitment to reaching net zero. We were pleased to take part in this pioneering project which could provide a blueprint for better water resource management for sports stadia and many others.”
This unique project demonstrates the level of innovation and impact that can be achieved at commercial sites, with innovative thinking and smart technology delivering cost saving, carbon emission reduction and widespread environmental benefits.
