Transport for London (TfL) has selected SSE Energy Solutions to supply dedicated solar energy to London’s tube network.
Scotland-based SSE won a competitive tender process for the contract with TfL, in which it will develop purpose-built solar projects to connect directly to the tube network. TfL said the plants “could” supply up to 65,000 MWh of power annually, around two-thirds of the Victoria line’s estimated annual consumption, although it did not reveal the planned rated capacity for the sites.
The projects are likely to include both solar and ground-mounted rooftop installations, as these will need to be close to the pipe network itself to enable a direct connection, bypassing the electricity grid and reducing costs and burden on the national energy system, TfL said.
SSE Energy Solutions will build, operate and maintain the projects throughout their lifespan. TfL issued a call for dedicated solar capacity in November 2024, looking for a capacity of 64 MW.
“Once built, the new solar installations will provide locally generated renewable electricity, reducing pressure on the National Grid, while also helping to protect us from market volatility with the added potential for cost savings,” said Lilli Matson, head of safety, health and environment at TfL.
This is not TfL’s first renewable energy procurement plan. The company – the largest electricity consumer in London – signed an agreement 15-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with EDF Renewables UK to secure solar energy supply from a site in Essex. TfL will purchase around 20% of EDF’s 400MW Longfield solar project to power the tube network, contributing to its target of purchasing 70% of total electricity through PPAs.
“If selected, these new locations will create green jobs, boost biodiversity and provide clean energy,” said Mete Coban, Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy.
In April last year, SSE recommended cutting around 150 jobs at its Renewables Services division, despite the company posting significantly higher profits. Trade union Unite called the move ‘cynical’.
