The energy transition requires not only sustainable energy generation, but also smart ways of making that energy available everywhere. Arnhem-based Wattsun is playing an increasingly important role in this. For the construction and infrastructure sectors, events and emergency services, the company develops solutions to one of the greatest challenges of our time: reliable, emission-free power in locations where the electricity grid is inadequate or even completely absent.
The impact of these innovations has not gone unnoticed. Wattsun recently won the Rabo Transitieboost, an award for entrepreneurs who contribute to a more sustainable society through innovative solutions. The award confirms the company’s position as one of the leading innovators in the energy transition and underlines the strength of the Lifeport region as a hub for sustainable technology.
Rabo Transitieboost 2026 Awards Ceremony
Award-winning for energy security during crises
The Rabo Transition Boost was awarded for the development of a mobile high-power battery system that enables emergency services to operate completely independently of the electricity grid during disasters. Think of situations where, due to extreme weather, grid failures or other emergencies, the power supply is cut off, whilst communication, lighting and specialist equipment are crucial.
The prize will enable Wattsun to further develop and test the system in collaboration with, amongst others, safety regions and the Ministry of Defence. The innovation thus addresses current societal challenges, such as grid congestion, climate change and the growing need for energy security.
Mobile energy for a wide range of applications
After ten years of product development, Wattsun has demonstrated that mobile energy solutions are much more versatile than just for use on construction sites. The modular battery systems and the Wattsun Solarkit are now being used in a wide range of sectors where a reliable, emission-free power supply is essential.
For example, the Solarkit makes site offices, canteens and other temporary workspaces fully self-sufficient thanks to a combination of solar panels, battery storage and smart energy management. The same technology is then used in specialist applications, such as a self-sufficient sawing container for the construction industry. This enables users to continue working sustainably even at sites without a grid connection or with limited grid capacity.
Nijhuis Bouw 2
One technology, endless possibilities
The versatility of Wattsun’s solutions is also evident outside the construction sector. For example, a mobile laboratory belonging to Eurofins Acmaa, built by Lansing Unitra, provides measuring equipment, compressors and computers with a reliable power supply throughout the working day. Thanks to the autonomous battery system, the battery of the electric company minibus remains available for transport, whilst staff can work on-site completely independently.
These diverse applications demonstrate how a single technology can contribute to the energy transition across various sectors. Whether it’s temporary worksites, specialist vehicles or bespoke solutions: wherever reliable mobile energy is needed, Wattsun’s systems offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels and a practical response to challenges such as grid congestion and electrification.
Innovation with a social impact
A key growth market for Wattsun is the security sector. Its mobile battery systems are used for applications including lighting, communication equipment, drones and pumps. A reliable energy supply is essential, particularly during emergencies, especially when the mains supply fails.
In this way, Wattsun’s innovation contributes to a broader societal development. After all, the energy transition is not just about sustainability, but also about a robust and flexible energy system that can withstand increasing pressure on the electricity grid and unexpected crises.
Value for the Lifeport region
For the Lifeport region, the developments at Wattsun mean more than just technological progress. The company demonstrates how regional innovation can grow into solutions with both national and international impact. Through close collaboration with construction firms, mobility partners, safety organisations and research institutions, new applications are emerging that contribute to a future-proof economy.
At the same time, innovations of this kind strengthen the region’s profile as a centre for sustainable energy, high-tech manufacturing and social innovation. They create high-quality jobs, attract new partnerships and contribute to solutions for issues affecting the whole of the Netherlands.
By winning the Rabo Transition Boost and with a growing portfolio of practical applications, Wattsun is proving that the energy transition is not just about generating clean energy, but above all about using it intelligently. And it is precisely in this area that the Arnhem-based company, together with partners from the Lifeport region, is making a contribution that is becoming increasingly important.
