Associated British Ports (ABP) has submitted a planning application for what would be the UK’s largest floating solar project — Barrow EnergyDock — at the Port of Barrow.
The attraction of a floating solar installation in this instance – rather than a ground-mounted system – is that it would allow the port to retain its operational land for maritime and industrial use, striking a balance between clean energy goals and economic activity.
The proposed solar array would generate up to 40MWp — enough to supply electricity to around 14,000 homes each year, although the energy produced is intended to support the advanced manufacturing sector, helping to stabilise electricity costs at the port.
The array would be installed on the 591,000m² Cavendish Dock which these days is unconnected to the sea and operates as a reservoir.
The solar panels will be installed on floating pontoons, anchored to the dock floor. The array is expected to cover around one-third of the dock’s water surface and will be made up of around 47,000 solar panels. Current leisure activities within the dock will continue, with potential opportunities for expanded recreational use in the future.
ABP’s own marine consultancy and survey company have conducted marine ecology and coastal waterbird surveys and assessments in and around Cavendish Dock, finding that the development is not expected to have any significant environmental impact.
Bryan Davies, Divisional Port Manager (Northwest and Scotland), ABP said: ‘We’re excited to see the planning application submitted for Barrow EnergyDock, and to see the first element of ABP’s Port of Barrow Masterplan start to take shape. ABP’s masterplanning team worked with the local Barrow team to design a Masterplan focussed on driving growth and strengthening the local economy in response to the significant investment coming to the region over the next ten to twenty years. Barrow EnergyDock is a pivotal step in realising our vision for a prosperous and sustainable future for Barrow.’
Kirsten Abbott, Group Commercial Manager (Energy) at ABP added: ‘We are thrilled to be submitting the planning application for the Barrow EnergyDock, which is a testament to ABP’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. It aligns with the goals set out in ABP’s sustainability strategy – Ready for Tomorrow – and represents a significant step towards a greener future for the Port.’
Image: Associated British Ports