Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is seeking a long-term green energy agreement to power Metrolink trams, supporting its goal of establishing the UK’s first carbon-neutral transport network through the Bee Network.

In line with the network’s shift to green electrification, a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is being pursued. This agreement would secure 100% renewable energy, sourced from a newly built solar or wind farm, to power the Metrolink tram network. The model could also later be expanded to accommodate the energy demands of the growing electric bus fleet.

Metrolink Trams
Metrolink trams operate as part of Manchester’s Bee Network

The proposed PPA, valued at approximately 57 million GBP over 15 years, would provide price stability while insulating the network from fluctuations in energy costs.

The initial agreement would cover 45,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity, equivalent to Metrolink’s annual consumption. As the bus fleet electrifies further, TfGM’s energy requirements are projected to rise from 58,000MWh in 2024 to around 214,000MWh by 2036, allowing for future PPAs to be established.

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said:

The Bee Network is the key to unlocking a new green revolution across Greater Manchester. With cleaner, more reliable public transport we can cut carbon emissions, improve services for passengers and clear up the air throughout our city-region.

Locking in a long-term, stable supply of renewable energy will help us meet that goal, delivering new net-zero infrastructure and driving down emissions across the network.

The PPA is expected to go live by 31 December 2027, ensuring:

  • Price certainty to shield against market volatility
  • Additional renewable energy capacity to boost the UK’s sustainable power generation
  • Progress towards Greater Manchester’s Net Zero targets, supporting a fully decarbonised transport network by 2030
  • Future-proofing the Bee Network, allowing for expansion of both bus and tram services

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