EDF Renewables joins hands with Network Rail to supply power

The French utility EDF Renewables has entered into a partnership with Network Rail in England to supply power.

EDF will supply power through Bloy’s Grove solar farm based in the east of England. The solar project will be constructed between Swainsthorpe and Mulbarton in Norfolk.

The company will supply 50MW of capacity to the operator through the power purchase agreement.

This is likely to cover 15% of its annual consumption for non-traction energy.

Network Rail plans to source 100% of its non-traction energy from renewable sources by 2030.

Jo Lewington, Network Rail’s chief environment and sustainability officer, commented, “Rail is already in a strong position in terms of its green credentials, but it’s crucial that we do everything we can as a business to improve air quality, minimise our use of fossil fuels, and transition to an industry powered by green, renewable, low-carbon energy.”

Meanwhile, Matthieu Hue, CEO of EDF Renewables UK, commented, “We are very pleased to be working with Network Rail to help them on their journey to decarbonisation. This project shows the ability of EDF Renewables UK to provide diverse solutions for customers in terms of low-cost renewable electricity.”

The company is in a drive to develop competitive and affordable renewable power projects in the UK to help it achieve the net zero targets by 2050.