Significant sections of the London Underground are set to be powered by solar energy after Transport for London (TfL) selected SSE Energy Solutions as its delivery partner to develop dedicated solar installations connected directly to the Tube network. The decision followed a competitive procurement process and will enable TfL to draw zero-carbon electricity straight from these new facilities, bypassing the National Grid. Under the arrangement, SSE Energy Solutions will collaborate with TfL to pinpoint suitable sites for construction. Locations will likely need to sit close to the TfL network to allow a direct connection and could include a blend of ground-mounted solar installations and rooftop panels. Once operational, the projects could supply up to 65,000 megawatt hours (MWh) of renewable electricity equivalent to roughly two-thirds of the estimated annual consumption of the Victoria line or the electricity used each year by around 25,000 homes. Over a 25-year period, the scheme could cut more than 27,000 tonnes of carbon, comparable to almost 32,900 flights between London and New York City, while also supporting green jobs.
As the largest single electricity consumer in the capital, TfL uses approximately 1.6 Terawatt hours (TWh) annually, equal to the consumption of around 592,600 homes, or 15.5 percent of homes across London. Through this partnership, the London Underground will receive locally generated renewable energy via purpose-built infrastructure, reducing reliance on the National Grid’s centralised sources and Distribution Network Operators. The private wire structure ensures power is supplied at a fixed price, shielding TfL from market volatility and contributing to security of supply through domestic generation. Over time, the model could also unlock further financial efficiencies by avoiding some of the costs linked to transmission through the National Grid.
The initiative forms an integral component of TfL’s Energy Purchasing Strategy, under which up to 70 percent of electricity demand will be secured through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Last summer, TfL confirmed its first such agreement following a competitive procurement process, appointing a delivery partner to build a new solar facility in Longfield, Essex. Renewable electricity generated there will support the London Underground and aid decarbonisation of the national grid, while guaranteeing supply at a fixed price. As TfL advances towards its goal of sourcing 100 per cent renewably sourced electricity across operations by 2030, this marks one of the first private wire schemes implemented for an urban transport network.
