PLANS TO INSTALL the UK’s largest roof-mounted solar energy system at the Port of Liverpool were announced by Peel Ports Group.

Partnering with E.ON to become net zero by 2040, the plans could see as many as 63,000 solar panels – the same as 18 football pitches – installed on 26 buildings across Port of Liverpool.

The panels could generate up to 31MW of renewable electricity and provide the same amount of power as the yearly needs of more than 10,000 average UK homes.

The exact number of panels and their generation potential will be confirmed in the final designs. However, the rooftop solar array is expected to be the largest of its kind in the UK and will generate up to 25% of the port’s annual electricity needs.

Largest Rooftop Solar Project

The solar panels will reduce CO2e emissions from the site by more than 6,500 tonnes each year. It is the equivalent of taking more than 2,250 cars off the road.

The project will be wholly contained within the existing footprint of the port. It will use existing roof space and all equipment and technology will be brought directly to the port by sea.

More than 6,000 solar panels have already been delivered to the port ready to be installed on the new 240,000 square foot Alexandra Dock warehouse which is nearing completion.

The project is being financed and delivered by E.ON with installation of the solar panels underway and due to be completed by mid-2026. E.ON has committed to using local contractors where possible and wants to work with local companies for ongoing maintenance during the 25-year period.

Claudio Veritiero, CEO of Peel Ports Group, said: “We’re proud to be embarking on this long-term partnership with E.ON and to be undertaking this important project together, revolutionising the Port of Liverpool’s energy system. Ports of the future need to become more sustainable environments and we must play our part in a greener supply chain. There is still work to do, but this project is a huge step for Peel Ports Group in cutting emissions and driving our ambition to become a net-zero port operator by 2040.”

Planning applications have been lodged with Sefton Council and with Liverpool City Council.

Specialists involved in the project include EMTEC, FES, Absolute Solar and Cogeo as planning co-ordinators.

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