Network Rail Signs Landmark Green Energy Agreement with EDF Renewables UK to Supply 64 GWh Annually from Norfolk Solar Farm for Non-Traction Operations, All You Need To Know

Network Rail has taken a bold step in its sustainability journey by entering into a landmark agreement with EDF Renewables UK to supply a significant share of its non-traction electricity from a purpose-built solar farm in Norfolk. The move is part of the UK’s larger push to decarbonise its transport sector and supports the government’s Net Zero Strategy, aimed at slashing greenhouse gas emissions across all industries by 2050.

The upcoming solar project, known as Bloy’s Grove, will be located near the village of Swainsthorpe. Once operational, it will deliver 64 gigawatt hours of solar energy annually through a 14-year Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (CPPA) signed with Network Rail. This clean electricity will power around 15% of the organisation’s requirements for its stations, depots, and office facilities, significantly shrinking its carbon footprint.

A Big Leap Toward Decarbonising the Railway

This agreement is more than a power contract—it’s a central component of Network Rail’s broader environmental vision. As a core part of the organisation’s Green Strategy, the CPPA reflects its intent to transition all non-traction energy usage from fossil fuels to renewables. While the decarbonisation of train operations (traction energy) remains a longer-term challenge, Network Rail is accelerating its transition in areas it can directly control, such as administrative and passenger facilities.

The energy generated through this single CPPA is substantial. For comparison, one year’s output from Bloy’s Grove would be enough to power London Liverpool Street station for nine years. Over the duration of the contract, it could supply all of Network Rail’s 20 managed stations with electricity for eight years. These figures highlight the immense potential of renewable power when integrated into national infrastructure networks.

Solar Power: A Foundation of a Cleaner Transport Network

The new solar farm forms part of a national trend toward large-scale clean energy investment in the transport sector. As Network Rail pushes to modernise its systems and reduce environmental impact, this solar energy contract positions it as a leader in public infrastructure sustainability.

The UK government’s strategy for transport decarbonisation prioritises cleaner fuels, improved efficiency, and new technologies. Within this framework, rail already holds an advantage as a lower-emission transport option. Around 70% of rail passenger kilometres in the UK are currently covered by electric traction. Now, with additional investment in green electricity for stations and facilities, rail’s overall carbon intensity continues to fall—making it one of the most climate-conscious modes of mass transit.

Local Gains and National Climate Impact from Bloy’s Grove

The environmental benefits of the Bloy’s Grove solar farm are matched by its community impact. EDF Renewables UK, which is responsible for both construction and operations, has committed to a 35-year lifespan for the project. Over that time, the solar installation is expected to offset roughly 60,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide—an amount comparable to the emissions absorbed by more than 2.2 million newly planted trees.

In addition to its green energy contributions, the project will deliver ongoing value to the local community. EDF Renewables UK has pledged to fund local initiatives through an annual community investment, amounting to significant support for grassroots projects over the farm’s operational life. This model of development reflects the principles laid out in the UK’s Community Energy strategy, which promotes local benefits from national renewable schemes.

By placing a strong emphasis on both climate and community, the Bloy’s Grove project offers a template for how utility-scale renewables can be integrated into existing infrastructure while winning public support.

A Partnership Built on Shared Sustainability Goals

The collaboration between Network Rail and EDF Renewables UK is a strong example of how public infrastructure and private-sector innovation can align to drive real progress toward environmental targets. EDF, one of the UK’s largest renewable energy developers, structured this CPPA to deliver reliable, affordable green electricity to the rail network while ensuring the long-term viability of the solar site.

For Network Rail, the agreement not only meets internal sustainability goals—it also supports national carbon reduction policies and demonstrates that transport infrastructure can lead the way in climate action. With price stability locked in for more than a decade, the CPPA also helps insulate the organisation from the volatility of energy markets.

These types of long-term power agreements are becoming increasingly vital in helping large-scale users commit to low-carbon energy. The UK government recognises CPPAs as critical tools for scaling up clean energy demand and decarbonising sectors that are historically harder to electrify—like transport and manufacturing.

Contributing to the UK’s Net Zero Commitments

The solar agreement directly supports the UK’s roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by mid-century. As part of that strategy, the government has called on all sectors—including transport, energy, and industry—to adopt cleaner technologies and operational practices.

By covering 15% of its electricity needs for stations and other non-traction functions with solar energy, Network Rail is taking measurable action to reduce its environmental impact. This step also reinforces broader goals set out in national policies such as the Clean Growth Strategy and the Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution, which encourages renewable power development and greener transport alternatives.

In terms of measurable environmental return, the electricity generated from Bloy’s Grove over the life of the agreement will contribute to emissions reductions equivalent to hundreds of thousands of train journeys. And with more agreements of this nature anticipated in the coming years, Network Rail is establishing a long-term pathway to completely decarbonising its operations.

Setting a Green Standard for the Future of Rail

The partnership with EDF Renewables UK and the launch of Bloy’s Grove are not one-off achievements—they signal the start of a deeper transformation in how Britain’s railways are powered. Network Rail’s pursuit of additional CPPAs in the future will be key to unlocking the remaining 85% of its non-traction energy needs, ensuring that every station, office, and depot runs on clean, renewable power.

As the railway sector continues to upgrade infrastructure and electrify more lines, integrating green energy at every point in the supply chain will become even more critical. The Bloy’s Grove agreement provides not only a clean energy source, but also a blueprint for public-private cooperation, long-term planning, and responsible environmental stewardship.

Conclusion: Turning the Rails Toward a Renewable Future

The deal between Network Rail and EDF Renewables UK represents a pivotal moment in the UK’s clean energy movement. It’s a tangible demonstration of how long-established institutions can embrace new energy technologies and contribute meaningfully to national climate goals.

By investing in solar power for its non-traction operations, Network Rail is reducing emissions, creating local benefits, and laying the groundwork for a more sustainable transport future. As other sectors and infrastructure operators look to follow suit, this partnership stands as a beacon of how energy, environment, and innovation can travel the same track—toward a greener, more resilient Britain.