At Zestec, we’re passionate about driving sustainable transformation, and our latest project with MIRA Tech Park is a shining example of that commitment. Working alongside Avonside Energy Services, we are proud to be delivering a 7MWp solar PV system to support MIRA Tech Park’s vision as a European Centre of Excellence for net-zero mobility development.

A vision for sustainable innovation

MIRA Tech Park, part of the globally renowned HORIBA Group, operates Europe’s largest mobility technology park. With over 40 cutting-edge test facilities, extensive proving ground, and more than 35 tenant organisations, the Tech Park is at the forefront of future transport innovation. Receiving the 2024 King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development is a testament to their leadership in sustainable practices — and their decision to install a large-scale solar scheme underscores their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Simon Hall, Operations Director, MIRA Tech Park said “Our partnership with Zestec and Avonside Energy to deliver a 7MW solar PV system is a crucial step in advancing clean energy solutions at MIRA Tech Park. Collaborations like this are key to driving the transition to net-zero mobility, reinforcing our vision and commitment to being the global location for sustainable mobility innovation.”

Engineering excellence and seamless delivery

The ground-mounted solar system, fully funded through our innovative Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) solution is set to generate 6.7million kilowatt-hours of electricity (kWh) per annum, of which MIRA Tech Park will consume 100%. The system will contribute 30% of the overall site annual electricity demand and reduce carbon emissions by 1,600 Tonnes per annum.

Designed and installed by Avonside, the system utilises Solis string inverters and JA Solar modules, both of which meet Zestec’s stringent quality and sustainability standards. JA Solar’s ability to provide complete supply chain traceability ensures the system aligns with critical ethical procurement policies.

The system connects to the Tech Park’s HV network through a dedicated HV switch room, with three transformer stations funded as part of the project.

Overcoming challenges

This project hasn’t been without its complexities — navigating National Grid requirements, satisfying archaeological planning conditions, and intricate HV infrastructure logistics required careful coordination. However, thanks to the exceptional relationships built with MIRA Tech Park’s leadership team, we’ve tackled every obstacle with collaboration and innovation.

The journey has been one of shared vision and determination. And we’re now ahead of schedule, with major milestones like trench excavation and piling well underway.

Simon Booth, CEO, Zestec said:
‘We’re incredibly proud to play a part in this transformative project — and we can’t wait to see the lasting impact it creates for MIRA Tech Park, its partners, and the planet.

For Zestec, this project exemplifies what’s possible when forward-thinking businesses commit to sustainability. By harnessing solar energy, MIRA Tech Park is reducing its carbon footprint and setting a powerful example for the transport sector and beyond’.

A brighter tomorrow

Bill Rumble, Managing Director, Avonside Energy said ‘We’re proud to partner with Zestec to deliver this exciting programme for such a discerning client – MIRA Tech Park, who’s synonymous with health and safety, performance and engineering excellence. We’re all set to espouse those values in this project through our in-house team of designers, project managers and installation technicians.

Stay tuned for more updates as we power toward project completion!

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