Denmark Hill station has become the first train station in Europe to have BIPVco’s Flextron thin film technology installed, on top of other upgrades, following a £7.5m extension. The sophisticated and flexible solar panels are different from traditional ‘glass like’ panels, requiring no additional weight support, and will be used across other stations going forward. The new type of photovoltaic film fitted to the new roof has been incorporated in the pioneering design as it produces more energy than the new building needs, which is then put back into the electricity grid. On top of an aesthetic finish, the panels are also shatterproof and have a self-cleaning, Teflon like top sheet which doesn’t need any ongoing maintenance.
A new entrance, more comfortable waiting facilities, sheltered platforms, better lighting, a new 85-space cycle hub, and intriguing public art are just some of the other benefits passengers should expect. The development was funded almost entirely by the Department of Transport and is the first “carbon positive” upgrade on the rail network.