Blackfriars facelift hits halfway point

06/07/2012 08:30:16

 

Work to revamp Blackfriars station to launch London's largest single collection of solar panels has reached the half-way stage, as workers installed the 2,200th panel earlier this week.

Network Rail is modernising the Victorian station on top of the Blackfriars bridge in central London to free up space for more passengers and trains, with 4,400 solar panels due to be installed on the station's roof.

Once completed, it is hoped the sustainable energy source will provide the station with up to 50% of its energy needs, making Blackfriars the largest solar bridge in the world.

The solar panels cover an area of 6,000 m2 and are expected to generate 900,000 kWh of electricity every year, slashing carbon emissions by over 500 tonnes.

Network Rail senior programme manager for Blackfriars, Paul Byrne, said: "We've rebuilt Blackfriars on a 125 year old rail bridge, creating a 21st century, solar-powered station on Victorian foundations.

"Blackfriars' iconic location spanning the River Thames makes it a showcase for the potential of solar power, and an important benchmark for Network Rail as we look to make best use of sustainable technology on the rail network."

Copyright Press Association 2012

 

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