England, United Kingdom, March 10, 2025: Plans for what could become the United Kingdom’s largest floating solar farm have been revealed, marking a significant stride toward expanding the nation’s renewable energy capacity. Associated British Ports (ABP) has submitted a proposal to install 47,000 solar panels across Cavendish Dock in Barrow, Cumbria, utilizing nearly a third of the dock’s water surface.

The ambitious project aims to harness solar power to support Barrow’s advanced engineering sector, with a particular focus on supplying renewable electricity to submarine manufacturer BAE Systems. According to the planning application, the floating solar array would generate enough energy to power approximately 14,000 homes annually, offering a substantial reduction in reliance on fossil fuels.

Unlike traditional land-based solar farms, the Cavendish Dock installation will feature panels mounted on floating pontoons, angled for optimal sunlight capture and anchored securely to the dock floor. This innovative design ensures stability while preserving the ecological balance of the water body. ABP emphasizes that using the dock’s surface, rather than valuable port land, allows industrial and manufacturing activities to continue without disruption, safeguarding jobs and boosting the local economy.

The proposal has been carefully formed with community considerations in mind. ABP has consulted with the local angling association to address potential concerns, promising that any disruptions during construction will be short-lived. Once completed, fishing activities and public access to nearby walkways are expected to remain largely unaffected.

This floating solar farm is the first phase of ABP’s broader vision for the port of Barrow. Future plans include the construction of a new jetty and offshore wind infrastructure, signalling a long-term commitment to clean energy development in the region.

A public consultation is now underway, inviting feedback from residents and stakeholders. Should the project receive approval, construction could begin as early as this summer, with completion anticipated within nine to twelve months. If successful, the Cavendish Dock solar farm could represent a transformative leap forward in the UK’s renewable energy landscape, setting a precedent for innovative, space-efficient green solutions.