New Spitalfields Market powers up with London’s largest rooftop solar installation

One of the UK’s most important wholesale food markets is now home to the largest rooftop solar installation in London, following the completion of a major renewable energy project at New Spitalfields Market. Managed by the City of London Corporation, New Spitalfields Market (in Walthamstow) is a nationally significant hub within the UK’s food supply chain, supplying fresh produce to businesses across London and beyond. The installation by Vital Energi comprises 2,730 solar panels, creating a 1.4 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar array, the largest rooftop solar installation in London. The system is expected to generate around 1.27 gigawatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to power approximately 470 homes. Operating overnight and around the clock, the market has significant energy requirements to support refrigeration, lighting, and essential infrastructure. By generating more of its electricity on site, the market will reduce its reliance on grid power while improving its long-term operational resilience. The project is expected to cut carbon emissions by approximately 225 tonnes each year, equivalent to the electricity used by around 50 homes annually. The circa £1million investment