Suffolk-based East Green Energy has teamed up with National Pontoon to develop the 750 kWp installation in Bramford near Ipswich, one of the largest of its kind in the UK. It will supply 20% of the energy needs of Suffolk Fresh's hydroponic glasshouse, the UK's first semi-closed hydroponic glasshouse.
Jack Gawthrop, commercial manager at East Green Energy, said: "This is a hugely exciting step forward in combining clean energy with innovative agriculture. Floating solar offers a smart, space-efficient solution, and we're proud to be working with National Pontoon and Suffolk Fresh on delivering a project that champions both sustainability and local innovation."
The system will feature around 1,250 solar panels installed on floating pontoons, covering 3,500 square metres of water surface. The panels will primarily power the site's refrigeration systems, supporting Suffolk Fresh's sustainable food production process.
The glasshouse itself spans 8.4 hectares—about the size of 11 football pitches. East Green Energy designed the installation, which uses a bespoke anchoring system to secure the pontoons to the reservoir bund.
Read more at Ipswich Star
