Wedoany.com Report-Jun 3, Network Rail has signed a corporate power purchase agreement (CoPPA) with EDF Renewables to source energy from a new solar farm in Norfolk, UK, to power its stations, offices, and depots. The facility, located at Bloy’s Grove near Swainsthorpe, close to the Great Eastern Main Line, will be constructed and operated by EDF Renewables UK.

The move is set to reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 60,000t.

The agreement, described as the first of its kind for Britain’s railway system, will supply 64GWh of solar energy annually for 14 years, covering about 15% of the electricity needs for Network Rail’s managed stations, depots, and offices. This output could power London Liverpool Street station for nine years or all 20 Network Rail-managed stations for eight years. The solar farm is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 60,000 tonnes, equivalent to planting over two million trees.

EDF Renewables UK will also contribute £20,000 ($26,900) annually to a community fund throughout the project’s 35-year lifespan. The initiative aligns with Network Rail’s Green Strategy, which focuses on transitioning to sustainable energy sources to support its operations.

UK Minister of State for Rail, Lord Peter Hendy, said: “We are working with partners across the rail industry to build a modern transport network with our environmental commitments at the heart. The government’s Plan for Change is driving economic growth, transitioning the country to sustainable energy, and securing jobs. Under our new integrated approach, we are ensuring the British rail industry remains at the forefront of innovation and improvement.”

Network Rail CFO Jeremy Westlake stated: “This contract, the first of its kind for the railway, shows how organisations like Network Rail can use their buying power to drive investment in clean power generation for the country. With the railway industry set to unite under Great British Railways, this contract, our Green Strategy, and a cohesive railway system provide us with even more opportunities to reduce emissions and make our railway even greener.”

In addition to this project, Network Rail began a year-long renovation of Scarborough’s railway station roof in April 2025. Concurrently, Network Rail Property submitted plans to redevelop London Liverpool Street station to accommodate future passenger growth, further enhancing the UK’s rail infrastructure.