1. Heat and Energy
Sustainability is a priority for our residents and businesses. And that hasn’t gone unnoticed! Using various indicators, we can Map our progress toward Map a future-proof municipality. By adopting the Policy Statement on Energy Transition and the Circular Economy, we now have a clear sustainability vision to guide our efforts.
In addition to this milestone, there are measurable factors such as energy efficiency ratings, the reduction in natural gas consumption, the number of solar panels, the use of the Energy Help Desk and EnergieVitaal, the number of financing applications, and the number of business owners seeking sustainability advice.
1.1 Launch of the district heating study
Last summer, we officially launched a study into the possibility of establishing a district heating network in part of Beneden-Leeuwen. To inform residents in the neighborhood in question, we sent them a letter and went door-to-door. We knocked on doors, spoke with residents, answered questions, and held an informational meeting for residents who wanted to contribute their ideas.
Residents could also sign up their homes as pilot homes. In a pilot home, we install equipment that simulates a district heating network. This allows us to see in practice how a district heating network works. Two suitable households were selected from among the many applications.
The trial will run until the summer of 2027, as will the rest of the research. At that point, we will assess whether further steps can be taken.
1.2 NIP Grant
In the spring of 2025, in collaboration with Energieloket Rivierenland, 700 letters were sent to households with an energy efficiency rating of C or lower. Our aim was to let them know that subsidies are still available for home insulation.
The grant is also available to DIY enthusiasts. The grant was applied for 177 times in 2025.
1.3 10 bat roosts have been constructed
Our municipality is committed to energy conservation and biodiversity. Because insulation can cause bat roosts to disappear, the “nature-friendly insulation” project works with residents to create new, safe habitats for bats. In this way, customized solutions in barns and building facades help not only bats but also the ecosystem.
We spoke with local resident Maryam Boer, who recently installed a bat box in her shed.
Maryam got involved in the eco-friendly insulation project after seeing an ad in the newspaper. “I saw it and immediately thought, ‘That’s right up my alley.’”
For her, getting involved was a given. She believes it’s important to take good care of the environment—for both people and animals. “Whether it’s a cat, a chicken, or a bat.”
Maryam already knew a bit about bats, partly from IVN meetings at the De Grote Rivieren Visitor Center. “I see them flying around my house every day. They’re just part of the scenery.”
After she submitted her application, her home was assessed. At first, it didn’t seem suitable, but thanks to a shed on the property, it turned out there were possibilities after all. Following a visit from an ecologist, a bat roost was installed in early December.
Her message to other residents is clear: “Insulation and respect for nature go hand in hand. Do both.”