Solar Powered Tube and New Advertising Opportunities for Brands

The London Underground is taking a bold step towards sustainability. Transport for London (TfL) has signed a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement with EDF Renewables UK, securing a supply of solar electricity for the Tube network. This renewable energy deal marks a significant milestone in TfL’s journey to source 100% of its electricity from clean energy by 2030. For advertisers, it creates a new wave of opportunities to link campaigns with values of sustainability, innovation and progress.

Solar Energy Powers the Underground

The electricity will be supplied by the Longfield Solar Energy Farm in Essex, due to begin construction in 2026. Once operational, it will deliver around 80 GWh of electricity annually to TfL. That’s enough to power more than 29,000 homes. Over the course of the 15-year agreement, TfL will receive 1.2 TWh of clean energy, the equivalent of running the entire Tube for a full year.

This deal is expected to cut carbon emissions by over 28,000 tonnes. In addition, the solar facility will contribute up to 400 GWh of clean electricity annually to the National Grid, helping the UK meet its decarbonisation goals.

A Wider Environmental Impact

The Longfield site covers 400 hectares and will go far beyond energy generation. Plans include tree planting, hedgerows and natural regeneration, which are predicted to achieve a biodiversity net gain of 87.1%. This is a significant step above the legal requirement of 10%.

The project is also part of TfL’s broader purchasing strategy, which aims to source up to 70% of its electricity through similar solar agreements. It ties in with London’s new climate finance taskforce, designed to help unlock £75 billion of green investment across the capital.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has described the deal as essential in building a greener, better city. For commuters and brands, it signals the start of a more sustainable transport era.

Why Brands Should Take Notice

Every day, millions of passengers travel through high-footfall Zone 1 and Zone 2 stations including Bank, Charing Cross, Oxford Circus, Liverpool Street, Victoria and Waterloo. These commuters are increasingly conscious of climate issues and expect brands to take sustainability seriously.

For advertisers, this creates the chance to:

• Position campaigns within a network now powered by clean energy
• Align messages with London’s net zero journey
• Showcase eco-friendly initiatives alongside TfL’s green investment
• Build brand trust with audiences who prioritise sustainability

Why Sustainability Matters for Advertisers

Modern audiences want to support brands that share their values. By highlighting eco credentials in these environments, campaigns feel more authentic and relevant.

Brands in sectors such as fashion, tech, retail and finance can stand out by:

• Promoting their own sustainability projects
• Linking creative campaigns to London’s green future
• Using Tube advertising formats powered by renewable energy as a credibility boost

Advertising Formats that Shine in a Solar Era

With the Tube shifting towards renewable energy, advertising takes on new weight and meaning. Brands can harness formats that reach audiences throughout their journeys:

• Digital 6 sheets for eye-catching content in busy corridors
• Tube car panels to connect with passengers during dwell time
• Escalator panels for maximum visibility on the move
• 48 sheet cross tracks to dominate platform sightlines and deliver high impact
• Digital Gateway screens for bold, dynamic messaging at key entry and exit points

When campaigns are placed in an environment running on renewable energy, they naturally carry more credibility and relevance.

Turning Sustainability into Brand Storytelling

This landmark solar agreement gives brands the chance to take their storytelling further. Creative campaigns could highlight green milestones, tie into events like Earth Day or even feature nature-inspired design to reflect the biodiversity gains linked to TfL’s investment.

By linking their message with London’s renewable-powered transport system, advertisers can demonstrate that they are not just present in the city but an integral part of its sustainable future.

Get Your Brand on Board

The solar powered Tube is more than a transport milestone. It is a powerful platform for brands to make meaningful connections with millions of Londoners every day. If you want to position your business alongside this shift towards sustainability, we can help.

At London Underground Advertising we hold extensive experience in planning and delivering impactful campaigns across all advertising formats. Our team works with you to select the right locations and formats to maximise exposure. We provide expert guidance to ensure your brand story resonates with commuters and aligns seamlessly with London’s green future. Contact us today to plan your next campaign.