Bill Esterson, Labour MP for Sefton Central and Chair of the Net Zero Select Committee, has visited the Port of Liverpool to check the progression of its roof-mounted solar system.
The project between E.ON and Peel Ports Group involves the installation of 63,000 solar panels at Merseyside port, which is expected to generate up to 31 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy – approximately 25 per cent of the port’s annual electricity needs – and save 6,500 tonnes of CO2e per year, which is equivalent to taking more than 2,250 cars off the road.
Esterson was joined by representatives from E.ON and Peel Ports Group, who led a tour of the site, which is scheduled to be completed in 2026, and informed him on progress.
Simon Duncan, Director of E.ON Infrastructure Services UK, said: “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.”
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MP Bill Esterson said: “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.
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Before finishing his tour, Esterson was told about a future project in which E.ON would assist Peel Ports in repowering the present wind turbines on the banks of the River Mersey with fewer, larger turbines, allowing the port to run solely on 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.”
In September, the Port of Liverpool, part of the Peel Ports Group, welcomed the UK’s largest shipment of feed maize.
