Transport for London launches solar infrastructure tender

Transport for London on behalf of London Underground Limited (LUL) has sought a private-sector delivery partner to collaborate on developing solar infrastructure to power the London Underground’s network.  

The high-level objectives for the Private Wire project are:

• To directly connect new-build renewable solar PV generation to LU's power network (and/or other parts of the TfL estate in due course);
• To reduce TfL's operational carbon emissions, taking into account the whole-life carbon emissions of the solar farm;
• To minimize carbon emissions during the development of the solar farm through to the decommissioning phase;
• To ensure social, environmental, and economic sustainability are considered in the procurement of energy;
• To minimize disruption to wildlife and the local community; and
• To improve the biodiversity in the area of any solar facilities and meet the biodiversity net gain requirements as detailed in Volume 2 - Specification of the draft Invitation to Submit Outline (ISOS) tender pack.

The chosen applicant will work with London Underground Limited to deliver solar private wire projects within reasonable proximity to the London Underground network. The contract notice lists several responsibilities. These include preparing, developing, and submitting a strategy for solar farm development. Contractors must also obtain approvals, consents, and permissions from relevant authorities and third parties. Additional tasks involve designing, building, operating, and maintaining the solar farms and related connection assets. The chosen delivery partner will sign a four-year framework agreement, with the possibility of a four-year extension. The contract's value can be up to GBP 175 million (US$ 190 million). Applications close on December 20, 2024. For additional details about this tender, please visit our Business Opportunity page here.