Solar PV & EV Infrastructure Programme

Client: West Midlands Trains

Project

Solar PV & Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Development Across the Network

Project Overview

This programme focused on developing renewable energy and EV charging solutions across multiple rail locations. The initial solar PV installations at Shenstone, Perry Barr and Northampton stations demonstrated the viability of solar generation and created a foundation for wider rollout opportunities across the estate.

Building on this success, additional solar and EV integration studies, funding proposals and concept designs were developed across the network.

RPS Role

Over the last four years, RPS Project Manager Asish has played a key strategic and delivery role, working closely with the client’s property and Energy teams as well as the Department for Transport.

His involvement included:

Strategic & Funding Support

• Drafting multiple funding and investment reports to support solar and EV deployment

• Preparing submissions for funding opportunities including:

  • IRG / IRGI funding applications

  • CAPEX panel and investment board submissions

• Supporting business case development, feasibility studies and option selection

• Providing cost modelling, programme inputs and technical justification for funding approval

Technical & Delivery Expertise

Beyond project coordination, RPS provided strong technical input to ensure solutions were viable, compliant and future-proof.

Key technical contributions included:

• Energy demand assessments and solar generation modelling

• PV system sizing and battery storage considerations

• Grid connection and infrastructure interface reviews

• Integration planning between solar generation and EV charging infrastructure

This combination of commercial, programme and technical capability enabled informed decision-making and accelerated approvals.

Solution Options Developed

Across multiple sites, we explored and developed practical deployment options such as:

1. Rooftop Solar with EV Charging

• Direct PV installation on station and depot rooftops

• Solar generation used to offset building demand and support EV charging infrastructure

• Suitable for sites with strong roof capacity and daytime energy use

2. Solar Carports Integrated with EV Charging

• Solar canopies installed over car parks

• Generation linked to EV charging points and station demand

• Dual benefit of renewable energy production and sheltered parking

These options supported scalable deployment and aligned with estate constraints, energy demand and operational needs.

Key Outcomes & Value Added

• Strengthened renewable energy roadmap across the network

• Successful funding submissions supporting investment decisions

• Integration of solar generation and EV infrastructure concepts

• Improved stakeholder alignment between client teams, suppliers and funding bodies

• Demonstrated ability to combine technical understanding with programme delivery

• Why This Matters

• This programme highlights RPS capability to:

• Support early-stage strategy, feasibility and funding

• Deliver technically robust renewable energy solutions

• Integrate solar and EV infrastructure effectively

• Provide long-term support and asset optimisation