A computer-generated image of Blackfriars tube station across River Thames. Photograph: SolarCentury
Work on the world’s largest solar bridge has kicked off in central London.
The project will see more than 4,400 photovoltaic panels installed on the roof of Blackfriars Railway Bridge in central London spanning the River Thames.
The £7.3 million worth of solar panels will cover more than 6,000 square meters and are expected to generate around 900,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually.
According SolarCentury, the UK firm managing the installation, the solar roof will provide the station with half of its electricity needs while reducing annual carbon emissions by more than 500 tonnes.
In addition to the photovoltaic panels, the station will also include sun pipes for natural lighting and rain-harvesting systems.
Blackfriars station closed for two years in March 2009 for refurbishment.
The solar roof and the new station are scheduled for completion in 2012.
