Powering the Future: TfL's Transition to 100% Renewable Energy

Transport for London (TfL), one of the world's largest and most iconic public transport systems, is taking a major step toward its net-zero ambition by investing in solar energy. A new initiative, developed in partnership with EDF Renewables, will see a portion of the London Underground powered by purpose-built solar farms - marking a milestone in TfL's journey toward 100% renewable electricity.

Where TfL Stands Today

Currently, TfL consumes approximately 1.6 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity annually to run its operations, including the Tube, buses, trams, and rail services. This is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of over 420,000 homes. As of 2025, only a small fraction of this electricity comes from renewable sources under direct purchase agreements.

New Solar Power Partnership

TfL''s most recent initiative involves a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with EDF Renewables to supply about 80 gigawatt-hours (GWh) per year of solar-generated electricity from the new Longfield Solar Farm in Essex. This accounts for roughly 5% of TfL''s total annual electricity needs and is specifically earmarked to power the London Underground.

Path to 100% Renewable Energy

To achieve its goal of sourcing 100% renewable electricity by 2030, TfL is exploring a multipronged approach:

• Additional PPAs: Partnering with more renewable developers for wind and solar capacity.
• Direct Infrastructure Investment: Developing TfL-owned solar and wind assets where feasible, such as rooftops and land near depots.
• Smart Grid Integration: Leveraging energy storage and demand-response systems to smooth peaks and integrate intermittent renewables.
• Trackside and Depot Solar: Utilizing available real estate to install small-scale, behind-the-meter solar systems.
• Grid-Decarbonization Synergy: As the UK grid continues to reduce fossil fuel use, TfL''s indirect emissions will also fall.

Challenges Ahead

While the shift to renewable power is critical, it presents challenges including grid capacity constraints, long permitting timelines for solar and wind projects, and the complexity of securing long-term energy contracts at stable prices. Regulatory reform and coordination with Ofgem and National Grid will be key to accelerating progress.

Conclusion

TfL's new solar deal is a small but powerful first step toward a cleaner future for London's public transit. As climate pressures mount and energy markets evolve, TfL's commitment to 100% renewable electricity by 2030 will serve as a global model for large-scale urban transportation networks.

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