MP for Sefton Central and Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee chair Bill Esterson recently paid a visit to the Port of Liverpool to observe the progress on the development of what is expected to be ‘the UK’s largest roof-mounted solar system’.
The project, a collaborative effort between between E.ON and Peel Ports Group, is set to see the installation of 63,000 solar panels at the Merseyside port.
This installation will reportedly generate ‘up to 31MW of renewable energy – around 25% of the Port’s annual electricity needs – and save 6,500 tonnes of CO2e per year, which is the equivalent to more than 2,250 cars taken off the roads’.
Construction at the site is expected to be complete in 2026.
Esterson commented: “I am delighted that the Port of Liverpool is setting such a shining example to other businesses looking to cut carbon emissions, as the UK strives to meet our net zero ambitions.
“Such local initiatives not only contribute to our national energy security, but – crucially – empower local communities by creating a decentralised, resilient energy system and securing green jobs.
“Indeed, the initiative is also delivering tangible local benefits, with E.ON committing to using local contractors where possible and continuing to work with local companies for the ongoing upkeep of the 25-year period.”
In addition to the solar system, Esterton was also briefed on a future project which will see E.ON support Peel Ports in ‘repowering the existing wind turbines on the banks of the River Mersey with fewer, larger turbines, allowing the port to operate entirely off its own renewable energy’.
Lewis McIntyre, managing director of port services at Peel Ports Group said: “At Peel Ports Group, we continue to make substantial strides toward our ambitious goal of becoming a carbon-neutral port operator by 2040.
“These transformative solar and wind energy projects are advancing at an impressive pace, positioning the Port of Liverpool at the forefront of the transition to cleaner, renewable energy. Significantly reducing our emissions contributes to a more sustainable future for our industry and communities.”
Simon Duncan, director of E.ON Infrastructure Services UK, added: “We always welcome the opportunity to showcase our solutions and we are proud of the progress we are making here in the Port of Liverpool.
“This partnership with Peel Ports Group and the work being carried out here marks a significant milestone in revolutionising the way we generate and use energy across the UK.
“The sheer scale of this project is a best-case example of what is possible for UK renewables, and demonstrates how we could be energising other commercial facilities, and even communities, with sustainable and reliable energy for the future.”
In August 2024, Peel Ports Group announced that space at a new 237,000ft² multi-purpose warehouse at the Port of Liverpool had sold out, even before construction had completed. Then in September, it was announced that Maritime Transport had completed the development of a new container storage terminal at the port.
