Network Rail signs solar power agreement with EDF Renewables UK

Network Rail has signed an agreement with EDF Renewables UK which will see enough solar energy to power 20,000 homes used in offices, depots and railway stations across the country.

The contract will mean 49.9 MW of renewable energy capacity is available.

This will cover around 15% of Network Rail’s annual consumption of non-traction energy which will be provided from EDF Renewables UK’s Bloy’s Grove solar farm between Swainsthorpe and Mulbarton in Norfolk, which received planning consent in June this year. 

This builds upon the existing traction supply partnership between Network Rail and the wider EDF Group in the UK.

This agreement is in line with Network Rail’s commitment to sourcing 100% of non-traction energy from renewable sources by 2030 as part of its Environmental Sustainability Strategy.

Jo Lewington, Network Rail’s chief environment and sustainability officer, said: “Rail is already in a strong position in terms of its green credentials, but it’s crucial that we do everything we can as a business to improve air quality, minimise our use of fossil fuels, and transition to an industry powered by green, renewable, low-carbon energy.

“Our vision is to serve the nation with the cleanest, greenest form of public transport and this agreement marks another important step towards achieving our aims.”

Matthieu Hue, CEO of EDF Renewables UK, added: “We are very pleased to be working with Network Rail to help them on their journey to decarbonisation. 

“This project shows the ability of EDF Renewables UK to provide diverse solutions for customers in terms of low-cost renewable electricity.

“This also demonstrates our ability to develop competitive and affordable renewable power projects in the UK as well as underpinning the importance of all renewable technologies in de-carbonising the UK electricity system to reach the country’s net zero targets by 2050.”

EDF Renewables UK will now work closely with the local community and the council to plan the next steps towards construction and operation of the solar farm. 

The company will build, own and operate the solar farm for the lifetime of the project, and is offering a £20,000 per year community benefit fund which starts when the site is operational.

There will also be significant biodiversity improvements on site, including a community orchard and the team will liaise with local residents on these matters.