EDF contract boosts Network Rail solar power targets

Network Rail has signed a contract with energy supplier EDF Renewables to use solar power to generate 15% of its electricity needs.

EDF’s new solar site near Swainsthorpe, five miles south of Norwich, received planning consent in June. It will provide enough electricity for 20,000 stations, depots and offices. None of the power is intended for the operational electrified railway.

NR is already a major EDF customer, and this contract to generate almost 50 megawatts per annum keeps it on target to source all its non-traction energy from renewal sources by the end of 2029.

EDF aims to win over local residents affected by the new solar farm by offering £20,000 a year to community projects.

PAUL CLARK. East Midlands Railway 158852 and 156405 pass a solar panel farm at Allington North Junction (Lincolnshire) on August 5, with the 0950 Nottingham-Skegness. A new solar site in Norfolk will provide electricity for stations, depots and offices.