Massive solar rail tunnel unveiled

Belgian renewable energy company Enfinity has constructed a solar-panel topped tunnel on the Paris-Amsterdam rail line. The 2 mile tunnel was originally constructed to protect the high-speed rail line from falling trees, but the space on top has also been put to good use, using 16,000 solar panels to generate 1MW electricity - enough to meet half the energy needs of nearby Antwerp station and provide additional power to the rail network.

A video of the new tunnel can be seen here http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Sc7ahEzVt1U

Enfinity is in negotiations with UK operators to install similar schemes, although discussions are on hold pending the outcome of a government review of feed-in tariffs for large-scale solar projects.

The new Blackfriars station, opening in London in Spring 2012, will also generate 50% of its electricity requirements through roof-mounted solar panels.