Parts of London Underground to run on solar electricity
Key Points
- New SSE Energy Solutions solar installations will connect directly to the Tube
- TfL described it as one of the first private wire schemes for an urban transport network
- EDF Renewables UK will build a new solar facility in Longfield, Essex, under a power deal
- Therapia Lane tram depot has become the first TfL depot to remove fossil gas
- TfL's carbon reduction targets have been validated by the SBTi
Transport for London (TfL) will receive zero-carbon electricity directly from new solar installations connected to the Tube network, bypassing the National Grid altogether.
TfL confirmed the arrangement in its updated Corporate Environment Plan, describing it as one of the first private wire schemes for an urban transport network anywhere.
The plan sets out more than 70 actions to cut carbon emissions and adapt the network to climate change.
SSE Energy Solutions has been selected to build purpose-built solar installations that connect straight into the Underground. TfL said the direct connection will help slash carbon emissions and build energy security for the network.
TfL has separately appointed EDF Renewables UK to generate and deliver green electricity through a Power Purchase Agreement. That deal will see a new solar facility built in Longfield, Essex.
The plan also points to future renewables contracts via the National Grid alongside the direct solar connections.
TfL has secured validation of its science-based carbon reduction targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), which checks that company targets align with keeping global warming below 1.5 degrees.
Therapia Lane, the depot where London Trams are based, has become the first TfL depot to remove fossil gas usage by upgrading its heating system and adding on-site solar generation. TfL also committed to converting more lighting across the Underground to LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting.
“We are committed to being transparent with our ambitions and achievements and this updated plan clarifies our next steps in making London and its transport services resilient and thriving for generations to come,” said Lilli Matson, Chief Safety, Health and Environment Officer at TfL.
