Supplier funded renewables for Traction (DC DPPA framework)

Background

Network Rail owns, operates and maintains Great Britain’s railway infrastructure, including track, signalling, electrification systems, bridges and stations. As one of the largest electricity consumers in the UK, Network Rail uses approximately 4.5 TWh per annum (c.4.1 TWh traction and 0.45 TWh non-traction).

In support of the UK Government’s Net Zero by 2050 commitment, Network Rail is seeking to transition its electricity supply towards renewable sources.

Scope of Opportunity

Network Rail’s electrified network includes

• 25 kV AC overhead line systems
• 750 V DC third rail systems (Southern Region and Merseyrail)

This procurement relates exclusively to the 750 V DC third rail network.

The Southern Region DC traction power system comprises

• ~40 grid connection points supplied by Distribution Network Operators (DNOs)
• A 33 kV (predominantly) three-phase distribution network, with limited 11 kV sections
• Around 300 substations with transformer rectifier units converting AC to 750 V DC
• A highly variable load profile driven by train operations
• Network control via SCADA systems from electrical control rooms

Opportunity Description

Network Rail is exploring opportunities to integrate renewable energy generation “behind the meter”, directly connected to its 33 kV distribution network to supplement existing DNO supplies. An export limitation scheme will be implemented to prevent excess energy being exported to the grid.

The intent is to procure energy through a Direct Power Purchase Agreement (DPPA) under a supplier-funded model.

Supplier Requirements

Network Rail is seeking expressions of interest from organisations that can demonstrate

• Proven capability in renewable generation development covering various technologies (e.g. solar, wind, storage, or hybrid solutions)
• Experience with private wire / behind-the-meter connections and Power Purchase Agreements
• Strong technical expertise in high-voltage integration (33 kV or similar)
• Sufficient financial capacity to deliver a pilot scheme and support potential wider rollout
• Ability to work within operational railway constraints

Programme

• Pilot project to be developed as an initial phase
• Subject to success, potential rollout across the wider DC traction network of up to 40GWh p.a
• Procurement launch anticipated: August 2026
• This will be a single supplier Framework.

Next Steps

Interested parties should submit an expression of interest via email to

nikki.hunter@networkrail.co.uk