Tube stations to be powered by zero carbon energy generators

Energy reform: London Tube stations
Nigel Howard

Tube stations are to be powered by low and zero carbon energy generators under a pioneering eco-scheme.

Mayor Sadiq Khan expects to grant a “licence lite” within months after energy regulator Ofgem gave him the green light to press ahead with advertising the new type of junior electricity supply deal.

City Hall is now looking to purchase “clean” energy from a generator panel including five London boroughs, social housing provider Peabody and energy companies Scottish & Southern Energy and Vital Energy. It would then be used to power escalators and ventilation systems in Tube stations, as well as offices and other facilities.

Mr Khan said: “I want London to be at the cutting edge of new green technologies, generating the growth and jobs of the future.”

Under the scheme, the capital would generate more of its own energy in a cleaner way, creating a £300 million investment boost by 2021, some 1,650 short-term construction jobs and 160 permanent posts operating low carbon centres and networks.

The Mayor has also been elected as vice-chairman of the C40 Cities Climate Steering Committee, a body of mega-cities committed to improving the environment, tackling air pollution and fighting climate change.