Britain’s Largest Floating Solar Project Planned for Port of Barrow

Britain’s top ports operator has unveiled ambitious plans to install the country’s largest floating solar project at the Port of Barrow, situated north of Liverpool on England’s eastern coastline.

The project, named “Barrow EnergyDock,” is set to be located in the Cavendish Dock, a former harbor basin and shipbuilding area that has now been transformed into an enclosed reservoir.

Once completed, the floating solar station will have a peak power generation capacity of up to 40 MW, catering primarily to customers in the advanced manufacturing sector, including BAe Systems’ submarine manufacturing plant. In addition to providing sustainable energy solutions, the project is expected to offer lower-cost electricity to the port, enhancing its overall operational efficiency.

The innovative design of the project will see 47,000 solar panels mounted on floating pontoons anchored to the bottom of the dock. This configuration will cover approximately one-third of the total surface area, with the remaining space left open for leisure activities such as shoreside and pierside fishing. By utilizing the water surface for power generation, the port can maximize land use for future development initiatives.

Prior to the project’s implementation, ABP conducted thorough wildlife surveys and assessments to ensure minimal environmental impact. The company also engaged with local residents through public planning meetings to gather feedback and address any concerns.

Looking ahead, ABP has outlined broader plans for the long-term expansion of the Port of Barrow, including the development of new infrastructure to support offshore wind operations and the construction of a new jetty.

With the necessary planning approvals in place, the Barrow EnergyDock project could be completed within 9-12 months, marking a significant milestone in the port’s journey towards sustainability and innovation.