At XL Businesspark in Almelo, a new chapter in energy management is taking shape. Facing the ever-growing challenge of grid congestion, the business park has made a bold move by becoming a pilot location for a Smart Energy Hub. This innovative solution optimizes the use of locally generated solar energy, while easing the burden on the regional electricity grid.
What is a Smart Energy Hub?
A Smart Energy Hub is a game-changer in energy management, designed to balance local production, storage, and consumption of energy. At XL Businesspark, this hub enables businesses to share resources and coordinate energy usage through agreements with grid operator Enexis. By working together, these companies not only secure their energy needs but also significantly reduce their dependence on the central grid, helping to alleviate congestion.
Ecorus leads the way
Ecorus, in partnership with GLP, takes on a crucial role in this transformation by developing large-scale solar systems on rooftops across the business park. By ensuring that the solar energy generated on-site can be efficiently stored and used when needed, Ecorus is helping to create a self-sustaining energy ecosystem. This doesn’t just power day-to-day operations with clean energy: it supports the long-term sustainability goals of the park.
William van der Leeden, Senior Sales Manager, at Ecorus:
“At Ecorus, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this project, working alongside one of the property owners to bring sustainable energy solutions to life. By tailoring our approach to the specific needs of this region, we’re making significant strides in addressing grid congestion and supporting the local energy transition.
What’s particularly impressive is the proactive and solution-oriented mindset of the grid operator. Their entrepreneurial spirit brings a fresh, inspiring approach that’s not always seen in other regions. It’s this level of collaboration that’s vital for a successful energy transition.”
The future is bright
Since 2020, XL Businesspark has faced challenges with grid overload, particularly in managing surplus energy. The creation of the Smart Energy Hub in 2023 has been a crucial step toward solving these issues, allowing companies to locally share and utilize energy and preventing bottlenecks in the grid. With ongoing support from the province of Overijssel, Oost NL, and key players like Ecorus, the hub is a beacon of how smart cooperation can drive sustainable energy solutions.
Provincial Executive Tijs de Bree of Overijssel: “We promote Smart Energy Hubs in our province because they allow us to use the electricity grid much more efficiently. This is crucial for businesses that can now continue their operations. The ‘E-team’ also supports entrepreneurs in growing sustainably, preventing grid congestion. This project demonstrates that collaboration pays off, contributing to both economic growth and the region’s sustainability.”
Want to learn more about the Smart Energy Hub initiative? You’re just an email away from discovering how your business can benefit from smarter energy solutions.
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