Middlesbrough Football Club is taking part in a multi-million pound project to develop solar energy. The club has won part of a £2m grant package from the government to install a roof incorporating solar cells.
The project is part of a government scheme to promote the use of so-called green energy sources.
The Premiership club will join the National Trust HQ in Swindon and the Imperial War Museum at Duxford in the experiment.
The project is being spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The department received scores of applications from organisations wanting to take part in the project to gauge the effectiveness of so-called photovoltaic (PV) cells.
Energy Minister, Stephen Timms said: “The sheer number of applications is testimony to the success of this programme.
“The £2m I have announced will help ensure the continued growth of the PV industry in the UK and reflects our commitment to renewable energy.
“Including this announcement, we have awarded £13m worth of grants to 110 different projects throughout the UK.
“This is further proof of our commitment to reach our renewable energy target of 10% by 2010.”
A DTI spokesman said: “A large photovoltaic system is planned for Middlesbrough’s football stadium roof.
“It will provide energy for underfloor heating to prevent the postponement of football matches and to power floodlights.
“The stadium already has some energy efficient lighting installed.
“The installation of a photovoltaic roof on a premiership football ground will help to promote the use of photovoltaics.”