A MULTI-MILLION pound solar farm in Barry has been as announced as winner of the Sustainability Award at the Wales National Transport Awards.

The £5 million Port of Barry Solar Array, developed by Associated British Ports (ABP), is a PV solar project with nearly 15,000 solar panels, transforming 20 acres of brownfield port land.

The energy generated by its operations reduces its carbon footprint, with surplus energy exported to the national grid.

In its first year, the solar array generated 3.6 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity – enough to boil the amount of kettles required to make more than 140 million cups of tea.

Dr Andrew Potter, chair of CILT Cymru Wales, said: “The Port of Barry Solar Array is an excellent example of a project which has been delivered with a clear organisational strategy demonstrating best practice.

"The results from the scheme are excellent results, making it a clear winner for sustainability.”

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Cymru awards is the only scheme to celebrate the achievements of the Welsh transport and logistics sector.

It aims to reward innovation and best practice found in private businesses, public sector organisations and the achievements made by individuals in the industry.

The award presented by Welsh Government cabinet secretary for economy and infrastructure, Ken Skates.

Ralph Windeatt, head of commercial for ABP South Wales, said: “We are thrilled to win the CILT’s inaugural award for sustainability at this year’s National Transport Awards.

"ABP has made significant investment in renewable projects across our ports to improve our carbon footprint and the competitive positioning for our customers as well as supporting economic growth and job creation.

"Sustainability is high on our agenda and it is becoming an increasingly important part of the business as has been recognised by this award.”