- The Power Purchase Agreement to provide green electricity will span 15 years
- It supports the construction of a new solar farm
- Longfield solar farm will provide approximately 20% of its output to TfL
EDF Renewables UK has been appointed by Transport of London (TfL) to generate and deliver electricity via a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) over 15 years through its Longfield solar farm in Essex.
The PPA will support the construction of a new solar farm, and once operational, will see renewable energy generated used to power the Tube. It will also support the decarbonisation of the National Grid and increase its renewable energy capacity.
Matthieu Hue, chief, EDF Renewables said the partnership will be a “significant step forward” for the delivery of its Longfield solar farm. He said the agreement is built upon a shared commitment to sustainability and investing in clean energy to help power essential public services and support the UK’s journey to net zero.
Longfield solar farm, which EDF Renewables UK secured the planning permission from the Department of State for Energy, Security and Net Zero for in June 2023, will provide approximately 20% of its output to TfL.
Saqid Khan, mayor of London, said that London is already “leading the charge” when it comes to addressing the climate crisis, so it’s “only right” London continues when it comes to its transport system.
“This new agreement will enable us to power our transport network with clean, green, renewable energy and reduce TfL’s carbon emissions as we continue building a greener and better London for everyone,” Khan said.
The PPA will contribute to the wider ambition to use 100% renewable source electricity across TfL’s operations by 2030, and support the Mayor’s goal for London to be a net zero carbon city by 2030.
Over the 15-year duration of supply under the PPA, TfL expects to save more than 28,000 tonnes of carbon, in its operations. As London’s largest single consumer of electricity, using around 1.6TWh per annum, the contract provides renewable power to TfL at a fixed price, protecting TfL against market volatility and potential disruptions.
Lilli Matson, chief safety, health and environment officer, TfL, said the company will use its purchasing power to “make public transport the most environmentally sustainable choice Londoners can make”.
“By giving EDF Renewables UK, we are also creating new green jobs, improving the local biodiversity and wildlife, and stimulating the national economy,” Matson said. “This will open doors to more public-private approaches to further accelerate the decarbonisation of GB’s grid.”
