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Green technology

Network Rail Signs Agreement with EDF Renewables UK for Green Energy Supply

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Network Rail has made a significant stride towards a more sustainable railway for Britain by signing an agreement with EDF Renewables UK to supply enough solar energy to power 20,000 homes. The 49.9 MW renewable energy capacity will cover around 15% of Network Rail's annual non-traction energy consumption, aligning with the company's commitment to sourcing 100% of non-traction energy from renewable sources by 2030. This agreement is part of Network Rail's Environmental Sustainability Strategy, which aims to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and transition to a low-carbon industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • The contract with EDF Renewables UK will provide 49.9 MW of renewable energy capacity, sufficient to power 20,000 homes.
  • The agreement will cover around 15% of Network Rail's annual non-traction energy consumption.
  • The Bloy's Grove solar farm, located in Norfolk, will be built, owned, and operated by EDF Renewables UK for the lifetime of the project.
  • EDF Renewables UK is offering a £20,000 per year community benefit fund, starting when the site is operational.
  • Network Rail aims to source 100% of non-traction energy from renewable sources by 2030 as part of its Environmental Sustainability Strategy.
  • The agreement is in line with Rail Minister Wendy Morton's decarbonization goals, setting the rail industry on a path to reduce emissions and achieve net-zero targets by 2050.
  • Network Rail's 30-year Environmental Sustainability Strategy outlines its four key priorities: providing a low-emission railway, a reliable service resilient to climate change, improved biodiversity, and minimal waste.
  • EDF Renewables UK has an expanding portfolio of 38 renewable energy sites, with over 5 GW of projects in planning and development.

Statistics:

  • 15% of Network Rail's annual non-traction energy consumption will be met by the Bloy's Grove solar farm.
  • 49.9 MW of renewable energy capacity will be provided by EDF Renewables UK.
  • £20,000 per year will be provided in community benefits from EDF Renewables UK.
  • 20,000 homes will be powered by the solar energy supplied by EDF Renewables UK.
  • Network Rail aims to source 100% of non-traction energy from renewable sources by 2030.
  • EDF Renewables UK has an operating portfolio of over 1 GW of renewable energy sites.

Sources:

  • Network Rail
  • EDF Renewables UK (www.edf-re.uk)
  • Environmental Sustainability Strategy document
  • About Network Rail

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