UK’s first solar-powered glazed bus shelter generates enough electricity to power a London home

London has just taken another big step towards a solar-powered future. Today technology company Polysolar and the Canary Wharf Group unveiled the UK’s first transparent solar bus shelter with a ceremony officiated by Green Party candidate Sian Berry.

Clad in innovative and transparent photovoltaic glass, the solar bus shelter is capable of generating 2,000 kW-hours per year—equivalent to the amount of electricity needed to power the average London home.

Designed by Polysolar in collaboration with hard landscaping and street furniture supplier Marshalls, the Canary Wharf solar bus shelter proves that urban infrastructure can be functional, beautiful, and innovative. The modern and minimalist metal-framed shelter is topped by a butterfly roof to effectively shed rainwater and prevent runoff from spilling onto the heads of transit riders.

Tinted to help reduce solar glare, the transparent photovoltaic glass can generate clean energy even in low and ambient light. The solar-powered electricity will be used to run smart signage and other nearby infrastructure. “The solar bus shelter provides not just demonstration of the functionality, performance and aesthetics of our PV glass but represents an important application innovation,” said Hamish Watson, Founder and CEO of Polysolar. “Using our solar PV glazing across London’s transport sector, in things like bus shelters, EV charging canopies, walkways and bike parks, could have a significant impact on the city’s emissions, without compromising its environment, architecture or budgets.”