Aqueduct Marina has advanced its decarbonisation efforts with the installation of a new 73kW solar panel array atop its workshops and facilities building in Church Minshull, Nantwich, England. The development marks another milestone in the marina’s long-term strategy to reduce its environmental impact.
Located on the Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union Canal, Aqueduct Marina is a 147-berth facility that includes a brokerage, boatyard and café. The marina holds 5 Gold Anchor and Clean Marina accreditations, with a reputation for both customer service and environmental responsibility.
Carried out by TB Electrics and partially funded by Cheshire East Council, the new installation comprises 170 high-efficiency 440W panels. The panels are mounted on the marina’s main building, which houses administrative offices, reception and the café. The system is expected to generate sufficient power to reduce the marina’s reliance on electricity from the grid by 20%. Based on current usage, the marina anticipates recouping the installation cost within four years through energy savings.
The latest solar upgrade complements the existing environmental technologies already in place at the marina. The current systems include a ground source heat pump and solar thermal tubes that contribute to heating and hot water requirements for the facilities building.
Managing Director Robert Parton, who has led the company’s emissions-reduction initiatives since conducting a carbon footprint audit several years ago, noted the importance of continued progress in sustainability. The marina has already transitioned all on-site vehicles to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel, which is also made available to boat owners. In addition, hydrogen fuel is stocked in the chandlery and EV charging points are provided for visiting motorists.
By expanding its use of renewable energy and offering low-emission alternatives to its customers, Aqueduct Marina continues to lead in the push towards a lower-carbon future for UK inland marinas.
