The UK’s largest floating solar energy project at the Port of Barrow has received approval from Westmorland & Furness Council.

The Associated British Ports (ABP) project will see Barrow EnergyDock install of a floating solar array of up to 40MW on Cavendish Dock with energy intended for use by the advanced manufacturing sector.

The solar panels will be mounted on floating pontoons fixed at an optimum angle for solar generation, secured to the dock bed by an anchoring system. The proposed array would cover around one-third of the dock’s water area and comprise approximately 47,000 panels. Current leisure activities will continue, with potential for further leisure use in the future. This floating approach preserves valuable port land for operational and manufacturing uses, supporting jobs and the wider economy.

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."

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