Bowled over by sustainability: Atherton Cricket Club’s journey to net zero

In the town of Atherton, a cricket club rich in local heritage is embracing a new role — as a leader in sustainability. Atherton Cricket Club, long a hub for sport and community gatherings, is undergoing a bold transformation to reduce its carbon footprint and support year-round community access.

With rising energy bills and an ageing LPG boiler, the club faced increasing challenges in operating efficiently. But thanks to support from Energy for Tomorrow, Centrica's social impact fund, the club is now undergoing a full retrofit. The upgrades include a 20kWp solar PV system, 10kWh of battery storage, a 15kW air source heat pump, and electrified systems for bar cooling and pitch maintenance.

These improvements aren’t just about saving money — they’re about opening doors. With more efficient infrastructure, the club can extend its use throughout the year, hosting coffee mornings, events, and inclusive activities for local residents. There are even plans to share clean power with Atherton Football Club next door, creating a wider network of sustainable community support.

The club’s annual carbon emissions are expected to fall from 15 tonnes to under 2, bringing it closer to its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. It’s not just a sporting venue — it’s a beacon for climate action, showing how local spaces can evolve and thrive through clean energy.

Tony Gredecki, Club Chairman said "The grant and overall support Energy for Tomorrow has provided is ground-breaking and allows us to make the most significant step in our decarbonisation journey.” 

With data collected through metering and community feedback, the club will continue to measure how its improvements contribute to environmental goals and social connection alike — making it a place where sport, sustainability, and community truly come together.

Read more about Energy for Tomorrow and the communities it's helping transition to net zero.