Energy Coach

Jan van ’t Wout

Who are you?

"My name is Jan van ’t Wout, and I’ve been living in Wamel since the summer of 2022. After a career in the workforce, I now want to use my knowledge to help people make informed decisions about making their homes more sustainable. I’m a tech-savvy person who looks at solutions from a broader perspective—and I don’t let go of a “problem” until I’ve found a solution."

What advice do you have for residents?

"Start by looking at simple, low-cost measures. For example, optimizing the systems you already have. Insulating older homes is a necessary first step before moving on to the next steps, such as installing a heat pump."

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our residents?

"The following applies to all of us: Everything we make, use, and turn into waste consumes energy. That energy is often in the form of heat, which is always released back into the atmosphere and leads to a rise in temperature. So using less helps combat global warming and protect the Earth."

Willy Driessen

Who are you?

"My name is Willy Driessen, and I was born and raised in Dreumel. I am married to Henny, and I am the father and grandfather of two children and two grandchildren. In addition to living a good life, my passion is to leave something behind for the next generation."

What advice do you have for residents?

"I can advise residents to call the Energy Help Desk and sign up for its newsletter. The first step is raising awareness and changing behavior; the rest will follow naturally."

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our residents?

"Do you own a home that is 30 years old or older? If so, please contact the energy help desk. I can then assist these residents with practical suggestions based on my experience as a structural engineer."

Jack de Bruijn

Who are you?

"My name is Jack de Bruijn. I am 63 years old and married. I am also the father of three daughters and the grandfather of two wonderful grandchildren. I have been living in Appeltern for over two years. Before that, I lived in Italy and Finland for 20 years, working for the European Union in the field of chemical substances legislation. I enjoy reading, gardening, and DIY, particularly woodworking and making furniture."

What advice do you have for residents?

"Insulate, insulate, and insulate! Ultimately, it’s essential—both for the environment and for your wallet—to reduce the energy consumption of our homes as much as possible. Of course, this should be done in a way that still makes your home a comfortable place to live. When it comes to insulation, good ventilation is important."

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our residents?

"Unfortunately, it appears that despite the promotional efforts of the municipality and the energy help desk, many residents are unaware that they can enlist the help of an energy coach. In addition, many people are also unaware of the wide range of subsidy options available to them. That’s a shame, because the energy coaches and the energy help desk can really help residents."

Frank de Groot

Who are you?

"My name is Frank de Groot, I'm 72 years old, and I live in Maasbommel. I used to work in technology, but I've been retired for 11 years now. My passion is music; I play in three bands. In addition to music, I enjoy working on sustainability projects. I’ve already implemented various measures in my own home to save energy. Soon, I’ll be working on balancing the water side of my heating system."

What advice do you have for residents?

"My top tip: make an appointment! That way, I can give you tailored advice on saving energy. Insulation is always a smart move—and don’t forget the windows. Good insulation not only saves energy but also improves comfort."

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our residents?

"My goal is to inspire as many people as possible in West Maas en Waal to be more conscious about energy use and to take real action. I want to show and let people experience that an energy-efficient home offers many benefits: more living comfort, a lower energy bill, and, of course, a contribution to a better environment."

Interested? 

Schedule an appointment with an energy coach at through the Energy Help Desk.