04 Jun, 2026 By Lee Kenny
Solar and marine energy systems firm Nova has switched on the UK’s newest floating solar farm for one of the largest producers of high-quality industrial silica sand.
The successful “powering up” of the 400kW floating photovoltaic (FPV) array took place on North Arclid Lake, an artificial lake located at the Arclid Quarry in Cheshire.
It comprises 650 floating solar panels and “marks a significant milestone” for Bathgate Silica Sand’s drive to decarbonise its century-old quarry operations and reduce its energy bills, said a statement from Nova.
It was developed in partnership with engineering and technical services firm RSK, from initial feasibility, through design, securing consents, installation and operation.
The approach allowed Bathgate Silica Sand to have the energy asset installed without any interruption to its business.
“The FPV array – with a footprint equivalent to two Olympic swimming pools – is generating clean electricity for Bathgate Silica Sand, reducing energy costs and giving the company greater control over its energy security,” the Nova statement said.
“Nova delivered the project, from start to completion, in just six months. The project leverages Nova’s years of experience as an internationally recognised leader in marine energy.”

Nova crews work on the installation of the project.

Nova crews work on the installation of the project.
Nova CEO Simon Forrest said: “Achieving first power at the Cheshire quarry is a significant milestone and a testament to our team.
“The array is already reducing our client’s energy bills. It clearly demonstrates what floating solar can offer to businesses with access to water bodies.”
He added: “We are excited about what this project signals, both for our pipeline and for the role floating solar will play in the UK reaching its 2035 target.”
Bathgate Silica Sand is one of the largest producers of high-quality industrial sand in the UK, and managing director David Robinson said the floating solar farm represents a “significant moment” for the business and “shows that quarries are playing a key role in creating a more sustainable future”.
“Many thanks to Nova for delivering on time and managing every aspect of the job, allowing us to focus on our core day-to-day quarrying operations,” he added.
 
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Tagged with: Bathgate Silica Sand Floating solar farm Nova RSK Solar Energy
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