Plans approved for UK’s largest floating solar energy project at Port of Barrow
The renewable energy project is set to generate power for 14,000 homes annually
Westmorland & Furness Council has approved plans for what will become the UK’s largest floating solar energy project at the Port of Barrow.
The decision was made on Monday (24th November) and will pave the way for Associated British Ports (ABP) to proceed with the Barrow EnergyDock project. The initiative will see a floating solar array of up to 40MWp installed on Cavendish Dock.
This renewable energy project is set to generate enough electricity to power approximately 14,000 homes each year. ABP plans to use the energy generated to support the advanced manufacturing sector while aiming to manage electricity costs at the port. The project is designed to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy resilience for local industry.
The benefits of Barrow EnergyDock
The solar panels will be mounted on floating pontoons that are fixed at the optimum angle for power generation. These pontoons will be secured to the dock bed using a specially designed anchoring system.
Around one-third of Cavendish Dock's water area will be covered with approximately 47,000 panels. ABP has stated that current leisure activities in the area will remain unaffected, with plans for potential further leisure use in the future.
This approach allows valuable land at the port to remain available for operational and manufacturing purposes, ensuring job support and economic benefits for the region.
Statements from ABP
Kirsten Abbott, Senior Project Manager (Energy Generation and Storage) at ABP, said: “We are delighted to receive approval for this landmark project, which represents a significant step towards cleaner, more resilient energy for the region. Barrow EnergyDock demonstrates our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that support industry and reduce carbon emissions."
Bryan Davies, Divisional Port Manager (Northwest and Scotland), added: "The development marks a major milestone in realising ABP's exciting plans for the Port of Barrow, which are designed to drive economic growth and support the region’s advanced engineering sector. We look forward to taking this project forward."
The Barrow EnergyDock project is a clear indication of ABP’s dedication to renewable energy initiatives and to fostering economic growth in Barrow and the broader Furness area.