Freeths advises London Luton Airport on landmark airside solar farm project

Leading law firm Freeths has advised London Luton Airport (LLA) on the development of a landmark 10.42MWp solar photovoltaic generating station, a key project supporting the airport’s Net Zero 2040 ambitions and long-term energy resilience strategy.

Owned by Luton Rising and operated by London Luton Airport Operations Limited, LLA is one of the UK’s busiest airports and has committed to reducing its operational carbon emissions through a range of sustainability initiatives. The solar farm will form a significant part of those efforts, generating renewable electricity on-site and reducing reliance on grid power.

The solar project is being delivered by Zestec Renewable Energy and co-developer Ikigai Energy. Zestec will install and operate the solar farm and provide power to the airport under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement, enabling the airport to benefit from on-site renewable electricity without the need for upfront capital investment.

Located within the airport’s secure airside perimeter, the solar installation will comprise 14,580 solar modules across approximately 106,000 square metres. Once operational, it is expected to generate up to 11.2GWh of electricity annually, while making a significant contribution to the airport’s decarbonisation objectives.

Freeths advised LLA throughout the development of the project over more than three years, supporting the airport from early-stage procurement as it progressed plans for one of its most significant sustainability initiatives to date.

The Freeths team was led by Partner and Head of Clean Energy Clare King, supported by Clean Energy Associate Samantha Osborne, Real Estate Partner Michael Bray, Real Estate Managing Associate Emilie Criddle, and Construction Senior Associate Sachin Shah.

Commenting on the deal, Clare King said: “This project highlights the breadth of expertise required to deliver major renewable energy infrastructure projects, particularly within highly regulated and operationally complex environments such as airports.

“The project showcases the strength of the Freeths Clean Energy team and our ability to advise on the wide range of commercial, property and regulatory matters that arise throughout the lifecycle of complicated energy developments. It’s fantastic to see construction now underway and the project moving into its next phase.”

Marc Wolman, Infrastructure Director at LLA, 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.

“Freeths has supported us throughout the development of the project, providing pragmatic and commercially focused advice over a number of years. Their understanding of the project’s complexity and commitment to helping us achieve our objectives has been invaluable.”