Binckhorst district heating in The Hague
Overview
The Binckhorst district in The Hague is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Once a business park, it is now evolving into a high-quality residential and work area, setting new standards for sustainable urban development. At the heart of this transformation is an innovative heating and cooling network developed by Trekvliet Energie BV, a joint venture between Heijmans and Essent. This network leverages geothermal energy and aquathermal energy, making Binckhorst a model for future urban sustainability.
Project
Over the next fifteen years, Binckhorst will be transformed into a community with 5,000 to 7,500 homes and 110,000 square meters of commercial space. The district heating and cooling network also integrates cooling solutions, making it a comprehensive energy system for modern urban living.
One of the standout features of the Binckhorst project is its use of geothermal and aquathermal energy. The geothermal energy system involves extracting heat from underground thermal energy storage. This method ensures an energy-efficient, robust, and affordable supply for the district. Additionally, aquathermal energy is utilized by extracting heat from the surface water of the Trekvliet canal and from drinking water, a method known as Thermal Energy from Surface Water (TEO) and Thermal Energy from Drinking Water (TED). This innovative approach is one of the first of its kind in the Netherlands on such a scale.
Technical details
The heating and cooling network in Binckhorst is built using the ectogrid™ principle, designed by Essent's parent company, E.ON. This fifth-generation heating network optimizes energy flows, allowing for the passive distribution of hot or cold water based on demand. This modular system is perfect for phased construction, enabling easy expansion and integration of additional sustainable energy sources over time.
The heating and cooling network can deliver low-temperature heat and cold, making it ideal for new construction projects. This flexibility ensures that both new and existing buildings can benefit from the network, contributing to a broader energy transition in The Hague.
Impact
The project is set to deliver significant economic and environmental benefits. The initial design phase began in 2023, with energy supply to start in 2027. By 2038, the network will serve all planned buildings, generating an estimated annual revenue of €6 million. The system’s ability to efficiently store and distribute energy will reduce CO2 emissions and keep energy costs affordable for residents and businesses.