Barrow EnergyDock: UK’s Largest Floating Solar Project Planned for Cavendish Dock
Plans for the UK’s largest floating solar energy project are taking shape as Associated British Ports (ABP) submits a planning application for Barrow EnergyDock. The project, set to be installed in Cavendish Dock at the Port of Barrow, would have a maximum generating capacity of up to 40 megawatt-peak (MWp)—the amount it could produce under ideal sunlight conditions. In practical terms, this is enough electricity to power approximately 14,000 homes per year, primarily supporting Barrow’s advanced engineering sector.
Floating solar panels will be mounted on pontoons covering around one-third of the dock’s surface. Unlike ground-mounted solar farms, this approach preserves valuable port land for manufacturing and operations while still delivering clean energy. The project is part of ABP’s broader plan to drive economic growth in Barrow, with public consultations and environmental assessments already completed.
Visualisation of proposed floating solar array in Cavendish Dock, Barrow. (ABP)
Where Can Floating Solar Be Used?
Floating solar is a practical option in locations where land is scarce or needed for other purposes. It’s already being deployed in:
Reservoirs and lakes – Helping utilities generate renewable power while reducing water evaporation.
Industrial docks and ports – Providing local energy for manufacturing and shipping operations.
Hydropower plants – Pairing solar with existing dams to create hybrid renewable energy systems.
The Benefits of Floating Solar
✅ Maximizes Space – Uses water surfaces instead of taking up land.
📈 Scalability & Flexibility – Can be expanded or adapted to different water bodies.
💰 Reduced Installation Costs – Requires fewer land-related expenses and preparation.
🌊 Boosts Efficiency – Water cools the panels, improving performance.
💧 Reduces Evaporation – Helps conserve water in reservoirs.
🏗 Minimizes Land-Use Conflicts – Leaves land free for farming, housing, or industry.
Floating Solar in the UK
Floating solar remains a niche part of the UK’s renewable energy mix, with projects like the Barrow EnergyDock demonstrating its potential in industrial and port settings. As the demand for clean energy rises, floating solar offers a practical solution for maximizing renewable generation in space-constrained areas. By utilizing underused water bodies, such as reservoirs and lakes, this technology not only generates clean energy but also minimizes land use conflicts.
With ongoing advancements in technology and growing interest from both public and private sectors, floating solar is poised to become a more prominent feature of the UK’s renewable energy strategy. It complements other sources like wind and ground-mounted solar, offering a versatile and scalable option for sustainable energy generation. As the UK continues its push toward net-zero, floating solar could play an increasingly important role in unlocking the nation’s clean energy potential.