Overview of the challenge
Portsmouth International Port (PIP) is a major UK port, responsible for handling millions of customers and vital cargo across the globe. Owned and operated by Portsmouth City Council, the port has grown extensively over the decades. Starting with just one route to France from a small section of reclaimed harbour front in 1976, it is now known as Britain’s best-connected port with more destinations than any other.
As part of their focus on moving to renewable energy sources, Portsmouth City Council was looking at ways to implement innovative solar panel solutions at the port.
Our approach
Portsmouth City Council’s enthusiasm to invest in the renewable sector has led to the development of an innovative solar carport, roof top and battery storage solution. Custom Solar were chosen to develop and pioneer the first ever carport canopy PV system on a UK port. The canopy’s system alone makes up for 50% of the sites vast 1,080.9kWp Solar PV installation.
With the canopy, HV infrastructure upgrades and the 1MWh battery storage system, PIP will generate 1,128,499kWh’s of energy per year, reducing annual CO2 emissions by 204 tonnes. The scale of the project will put the city on track to reduce their carbon footprint and move to a more sustainable future.
The result
- 1,128.5MWh electricity generated
- 204 tCO2 Emissions reduction
It is the council’s priority to support clean growth. I’m delighted that we’ve met our target to begin generating clean energy at the port by the end of 2022. When fully operational, the scheme will reduce annual emissions by 239 tonnes at this busy site. We’re committed to take positive action to tackle climate change, and this cut in emissions will boost our efforts to reduce carbon emissions across the city to net-zero by 2030.
