Heat network

The municipality is investigating how we can heat sustainably and without natural gas in the future. In that context, we are starting a feasibility study into a possible heat network in part of Beneden-Leeuwen. This concerns the area north of Zandstraat and west of Molenlaan and Ringkade. It is not yet known which homes will ultimately be connected. That is part of the study.

Why are we investigating a heat network specifically for this neighborhood? 

This neighborhood is located close to a cold storage facility. We are investigating whether we can use the excess heat from this facility to heat homes. In addition, this neighborhood is located close to the Waal River. We can therefore also investigate aquathermal energy as a heat source. 

What is a heat network?

A heat network is a network of underground pipes that transports water from a sustainable source to homes. This could be residual heat from a factory or water from a river, for example. This water is used to heat homes and provide hot water. It is an alternative to natural gas heating.

Why this research?

The Netherlands aims to be natural gas-free by 2050. Our municipality is also taking steps to become more sustainable. We will investigate the possibilities for each village/neighborhood. This is the first feasibility study we are conducting. We are investigating whether a heat network is a feasible and affordable solution. This is a feasibility study, so we are not yet making any decisions about implementation.  

What are we going to investigate? 

We are investigating various issues. These are: the heat source, the infrastructure, and the supply in the home.

• At the heat source, we look at how we can obtain hot water in an efficient manner. We do this by entering into discussions with the cold storage facility, Rijkswaterstaat, and the water board.
• For the infrastructure, we look at the space in the ground. We also look at what pipes we need in the ground and whether they are affordable.
• Before delivery, we will primarily determine which legal organization is the best fit. The municipality will definitely have a role to play in this, but we will determine in what way and how.

The study is expected to last until the summer of 2027. By then, we will know whether a heat network is technically and financially feasible. We are striving to keep costs as low as possible for residents. We will keep the residents of this neighborhood regularly informed about the progress. 

Who decides whether it goes ahead?  

There are many so-called 'go/no go' moments. The city council and the municipal executive can give their approval or stop the process at various stages. In addition, the residents of the neighborhood have a major say in whether the heat network goes ahead. If no one wants to connect, the heat network cannot be installed.