The energy transition requires not only new solar and wind power generation, but above all smart ways to utilise that energy locally. In the region between Nijmegen, Wijchen and Beuningen, work is therefore underway on a regional smart energy hub: a hub where supply and demand come together and where balancing is key.
In 2024, a wide-ranging feasibility study was launched to explore the potential of a regional hub. Marieke Butterhoff was the programme director for that study. “We looked at how we could harness regional solar and wind energy. During that process, we came into contact with various stakeholders.” In particular, data was analysed, discussions were held with local authorities and developers, and scenarios were developed. The role of hydrogen was also examined, for example as a buffer for electricity peaks.
Marieke Butterhoff
In addition, a supplementary study is currently underway, specifically for the Bijsterhuizen business park. This is funded by the municipality of Wijchen and the province of Gelderland. Selçuk Başkan, project leader for the Smart Energy Hub, is leading this initiative. In his role at the municipality of Wijchen, he is committed to resolving energy issues in such a way that the business climate in the region remains attractive and future-proof for decades to come. Başkan: “The study focuses on how the planned expansion on the western side of the site can be supplied with energy in a sustainable manner. It forms an important basis for the next steps.”
Selçuk Başkan
Bijsterhuizen as a focal point
Bijsterhuizen has now become the focal point of the debate. The planned expansion, in particular, places high demands on the future energy supply. As Liander is unable to provide the necessary capacity there, consideration is now being given to setting up a so-called closed distribution system (GDS).
“A GDS is a separate, private electricity grid within a defined area,” explains Başkan. “It usually has a single connection to the public grid, after which a dedicated operator is responsible for distribution and maintenance. This enables businesses within the area to organise and utilise their energy supply more effectively, free from the constraints of the public grid.” Process coordinator Tycho Tomassen plays a key role in this process: as the linchpin, he ensures that the many parties involved can find common ground and that the collaboration keeps moving forward.
The core team is also in regular dialogue with the grid operator. The aim is to ensure that the link between generation and consumption is truly local and to work towards a streamlined connection between the future GDS and the existing Bijsterhuizen.
Energy cooperative in formation
In parallel with these developments, a working group has been set up to prepare for the establishment of an energy co-operative. The aim is clear: to ensure that sufficient capacity remains available for businesses to grow and operate, without an electricity connection being the limiting factor.
A co-operative also makes it possible to apply for grants collectively and to jointly represent the interests of businesses in dealings with the government and the grid operator. Pieter Bergshoeff, chairman of the business association, plays an indispensable role in this. He ensures that the interests of businesses are firmly embedded in the decisions made and that plans are aligned with the practical realities of the business park. The energy co-operative is certainly no substitute for the business association. It focuses entirely on the energy challenges facing the estate.
“By adopting a bespoke approach, we can very specifically solve part of the problem. Right now,” says Bergshoeff. “I can see that there is good cooperation in this regard. Business owners need to feel that they’re getting something in return for what they give. That’s what we promise them. As a result, almost all of them want to get involved when we approach them. We’re given a behind-the-scenes look at their operations.”
Collaboration is on the rise
The companies' energy profiles have now been mapped by research firm Cinergie. Başkan:
"This research shows that much of the problem can be solved behind the meter. Think about installing batteries, optimising processes and taking energy-saving measures with a short payback period. Such measures take the pressure off in the short term, but do not offer a carte blanche for unlimited energy use in the future. Structural and collective solutions remain indispensable."
Butterhoff has seen collaboration in the region grow. “We’ve brought all sorts of parties on board. They’re now genuinely committed to supplying Bijsterhuizen with electricity and are working together very effectively to achieve this. There’s a lot going on in the region, more than before.” Başkan also sees positive developments. “A lot of calculations have been carried out recently. We expect to achieve almost 100 per cent energy supply in the new part of Bijsterhuizen, provided the plans do not differ significantly.”
The smart energy hub around Bijsterhuizen is more than just a solution to grid congestion. By better matching local supply and demand, businesses gain control over their energy costs and reduce their dependence on national infrastructure. It is therefore not just a technical solution, but above all a step towards a more sustainable and future-proof business park. Butterhoff: “Managing energy on a decentralised basis is simply cheaper and smarter in the long term than just widening the motorway.”
