First of up to 48,000 solar panels being installed at the Port of Liverpool are now generating power in what is claimed is the UK’s largest solar project. Tony McDonough reports
Almost 7,000 solar panels have been installed at Alexandra Dock at the Port of Liverpool and are already generating power.
These 6,926 panels are the first of up to 48,000 that will be installed as part of what was described as “the UK’s largest solar power project” when it was first reported by LBN in March 2024.
Port owner Peel Ports is partnering with energy giant E.ON on the project. The first panels have been installed on a new 260,000 sq ft warehouse at Alexandra Dock, known as the ‘Alex Shed’. They have been connected to the grid and are generating power.
This is part of a 25-year agreement between Peel Ports Group and E.ON, which is claimed will cut CO2 emissions by 4,700 tonnes each year – equivalent to taking more than 1,600 cars off the road.
Lewis McIntyre, managing director – port services at Peel Ports, said: “Generating the first power from this landmark solar project is a major milestone for the Port of Liverpool and for Peel Ports Group as a whole.
“By transforming our warehouse rooftops into clean energy assets, we’re taking practical, large-scale action to decarbonise a critical national gateway which enables regional trade and economic growth.”
This grid connection represents a key strategic objective for the port operator, which is seeking to secure 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
Once complete, the panels are expected to deliver 25MW of electricity, providing enough energy to meet a quarter of the port’s annual requirements and matching the yearly consumption of more than 10,000 average UK homes.
Vijay Tank, chief operating officer of E.ON Energy Solutions, added: “The Port of Liverpool is a critical national infrastructure site, and decarbonising places such as this is essential for the UK’s environmental and economic targets.
“The first grid connection of this major solar project is a big leap towards creating a clean energy system fit for the future.”
The full solar array is being financed and delivered by E.ON, with a commitment to employing local contractors for installation and ongoing maintenance throughout the 25-year agreement.
In line with the sustainability ambitions of the port, all work has been completed within the existing port footprint, maximising available roof space, with all equipment and materials transported to the port by sea, minimising impact to the local community.
In September LBN revealed Liverpool John Lennon Airport was switching on its new £3m solar farm, generating up to 3MW of renewable onsite electricity every year. This will meet up to 25% of the airport’s power requirements.