Sustainable energy solutions developer, Vital Energi, has partnered with Transport for London (TfL) in 5-year framework agreement, with the option to extend, to deliver a greener future for the capital.
The partnership, which was secured through the Greater London Authority’s (GLA) Re:fit framework, will see Vital Energi undertake energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects across TfL’s extensive property portfolio, which comprises over 3,000 properties.
Work has already begun on the projects under the agreement. One involves upgrading the LED lighting at Therapia Lane tram depot near Croydon, before implementing a host of additional energy solutions to remove the depot’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Another project will see gas boilers replaced with heat pumps at Palestra House, Oxford Circus House, and Victoria House. There will also be heating, cooling, and controls improvements at Palestra House, along with the upgrade of more than 9,000 light fittings to LED.
Vital Energi’s decarbonisation expertise will play a crucial role in helping TfL reduce its carbon footprint and work towards London’s ambitious goal of becoming net zero by 2030.
As part of Vital Energi’s commitment to enhancing communities and leaving a lasting impact in the areas in which their projects are delivered, they will work closely with TfL to deliver a number of social value initiatives. They are also teaming up with London Transport Museum to deliver climate education talks in local primary and secondary schools.
Closing the green skills gap so the UK can achieve decarbonisaton targets is a high priority for all industry organisations, so after recently opening applications for their next cohort of net zero apprentices, Vital Energi is looking to recruit local talent, with apprentices working on a rotation around the business and engaging with TfL projects. Apprentices will have the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience, while learning from industry experts and playing an active role in this suite of TfL projects.
Kyrel Rose recently kicked off his green career after joining Vital Energi as a net zero apprentice.
“I’m really excited to be working for a company which is helping organisations on their net zero journey, and shaping the future of energy,” said Kyrel. “There are lots of opportunities to work on exciting projects close to home, like this partnership with TfL, and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
Scott Lutton, Regional Director at Vital Energi, said:
“Our collaborative partnership with TfL builds on shared values and a commitment to sustainability. Our mission to protect our planet for future generations is fully aligned with TfL’s vision of a greener city, and we’re looking forward to teaming up with them in a joint effort to combat climate change.
“Partnerships like this are key to creating opportunities for apprentices and fostering the next generation of green professionals, as they gain valuable insights into cutting-edge technologies and decarbonisation strategies. We’re dedicated to helping close the green skills gap and ensuring that learning and development opportunities are accessible to all.”
With vast experience delivering projects in live operational environments, Vital Energi will liaise closely with TfL to ensure that work is carried out with minimal disruption to staff and operations, as TfL continues to operate its normal services.
These first two phases have been awarded grant funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), which is administered by Salix on behalf of the Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
