Can solar power benefit public transport buildings?

Solar power is one of the fastest developing industries across the globe – and considering its many benefits, it’s no surprise. One of the best things about solar is that it’s suited to all industries and homes, there really are no restrictions. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at public transportation as we reveal how solar panels can transform the way these buildings are powered…

Solar power in public transportation buildings

Over the last year or so, there have been a number of examples that prove just how valuable solar power is to the industry. With solar panels being used in a variety of public transportation buildings across the UK, it’s clear local councils are reaping the benefits.

Some of the major projects highlighted in the news include:

The solar powered bus depot in Swindon

In the summer of 2015, a new bus depot opened in Swindon featuring a rooftop solar installation. The 99 kWp solution is currently saving 43 tonnes of carbon every year and has created savings of more than £33,000 a year for the council.

The benefits of this installation include:

• Learning opportunity for residents and pupils at local schools
• Clean, home-grown electricity
• Lower energy bills for Swindon Borough Council.

Solar power across TfL buildings

As part of the London’s initiatives to cut emissions, solar panels are being put up across TfL’s 5,700 acre estate of stations, depots, offices, and other sites. This is just the start of the city’s renewable energy revolution, which plans to see London getting at least 30% of their energy needs from zero or low-carbon sources by 2030.

The benefits of this installation include:

• Reduced energy costs
• New, low-carbon future
• Improved low-carbon technologies in the city

New solar powered railway station in Cambridge

Work has already begun on a solar powered railway station in Cambridge. The new Cambridge New North station is expected to open in May 2017 and will have a 6m high tooth roofline, accommodating solar panels on its transparent roof.

The benefits of this installation include:

• Eco-friendly station
• Savings on energy bills
• Modern, forward-thinking solution

Low Carbon Energy transform Accrington Railway Station

At Low Carbon Energy, we’ve installed a solar solution at a major public transportation building too. In 2010, we installed solar panels at Accrington Eco Station – making it the first Eco station on the Northern Rail Network. The annual output from our solar panel installation is a huge 5000 kWh. This saves the station three tonnes of C02 each year and provides an annual FIT income of £2,800.

If you’re interested in a low carbon future, you might also want to consider our Energy Monitoring service. This unique service gives you access to the critical information you need to make changes to your behaviour and reduce your carbon footprint.

Do you work in the transport industry? If so, why not tell us where you’ve seen solar panels in use. You can leave your comments below or tweet us @LowCarbonEnCo