EDF Renewables to Begin Construction of Norfolk Solar Farm to Power Network Rail Stations

United Kingdom, June 2 2025: EDF Renewables UK is set to commence construction on a new solar farm in Norfolk marking a major step forward in the transition to clean energy for the UK's rail infrastructure. The project located at Bloy’s Grove near Swainsthorpe and visible from the Great Eastern Main Line is designed to supply power to Network Rail’s offices depots and stations under a landmark corporate power purchase agreement CoPPA.

The CoPPA signed between Network Rail and EDF Renewables is the first of its kind for Britain’s railway system. The agreement will see EDF Renewables deliver 64GWh of solar energy annually over the next 14 years equivalent to 15 percent of Network Rail’s electricity needs. Over the contract’s duration the clean energy supplied could power all 20 Network Rail-managed stations for eight years or London Liverpool Street station alone for nine years.

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.”

This development is a key part of Network Rail’s wider Green Strategy which prioritises investment in sustainable energy and reducing carbon emissions across its operations.

Network Rail CFO Jeremy Westlake said
“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.”

The solar facility once operational is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 60000 tonnes the environmental equivalent of planting more than two million trees. EDF Renewables UK will also establish a £20000 annual community fund for the 35-year lifespan of the project.

In parallel with this initiative Network Rail recently began a year-long refurbishment of Scarborough railway station’s roof and has submitted a redevelopment plan for London Liverpool Street station aiming to accommodate future increases in passenger demand.