Phased connection
Stadshart Nieuwegein has one of the largest WKO installations in the Netherlands. In recent years, the number of connections to the network has grown considerably. Not only homes, but also shops, restaurants, the theatre complex and the city hall are connected to the sustainable energy supply. Stadshart Nieuwegein, also known as Cityplaza, was developed by Multi Vastgoed. Klépierre, Mitros and CBRE invested in the project, which covers a total of 76,000 m2. The first phase was realised in 2011; in the years that followed, various subprojects were completed and connected to the existing WKO system. Tenants of this centre include private individuals as well as shops, restaurants and the theatre. Nieuwegein's old city centre dated back to the 1970s and had a business-like appearance. Partly with a view to the municipality's growth, a new plan was drawn up for the city centre, which literally had to become the 'heart' of the city. The new Stadshart is inviting: lots of greenery, terraces and shops with richly decorated shop fronts create a pleasant atmosphere. Catering establishments and flats above the shops ensure that the square remains lively even after closing time.
One of the most important tasks for the architects was the change from cold to warm. The chilly, businesslike market square had to be transformed into a warm, lively heart of the city. A major and one-off exercise. At Vaanster, we also know all about switching between cold and heat. Fortunately, our systems are not set up for a one-off switch, but to continuously create a comfortable temperature.
Stadshart's WKO installation consists of 3 doublets and 3 heat pumps, making it one of the largest installations in the Netherlands. Vaanster bought the installation turn-key, but did advise in the preliminary process. We have been entrusted with operating the system for 30 years.
A project like Stadshart Nieuwegein is phased over a number of years. During those years, connections were continually added to the WKO system. The possibility of more connections is being investigated so that the installation and sources are used optimally.
The City Hall is also connected to the installation
Nowadays, it does not surprise us, but in 2011 it was unusual for a municipality to choose an WKO installation that it did not own. Nieuwegein municipality was a pioneer in this respect. Nowadays, this happens more often. And rightly so, because multiple connections to one system ensures better utilisation of the resources.
Renovation and new construction
Besides a thorough renovation of the shopping centre, 200 new flats were built. Part of these are owned by housing corporation Mitros, the other part consists of owner-occupied flats. Both rental and owner-occupied flats are supplied with sustainable energy by our WKO installation.
- Developer: Multi Development
- Investor: Wereldhave, Gemeente Nieuwegein
Would you like to know more about one of the sustainable energy systems for your project? We would be happy to get in touch with you to discuss it together.